Text Truncated. Only the first 1MB is shown below. Download the file for the complete contents.
@Afghanistan
0
0$Kabul$3450$6917$1500000$
1$Kandahar$3160$6579$191345$
#
In earlier times, Afghanistan was known as Aryana and Khorasan. Its
present-day name dates from its renewed independence in 1747. In that year,
the Afghans drove off the last of the Persian rulers and founded their own
state. In 1919 the Afghans ended British authority over their country with
the third British-Afghan war. Afghanistan became a republic in 1973,
abolishing the monarchy. The Democratic Republic of Afghanistan was declared
on 24th April 1978. At the end of May 1988, a National parliament was
constituted, consisting of two chambers with a total of 316 representatives,
each elected for a period of five years. The national state of emergency was
lifted on 19 February 1989. A transitional government, the Seventh Alliance
of resistance groups operating from Pakistan was elected in February 1989.
#
AFG
Southern Asia, north of Pakistan
647500
647500
5529
China 76 km, Iran 936 km, Pakistan 2,430 km, Tajikistan 1,206 km, Turkmenistan 744 km, Uzbekistan 137 km
0
?
?
?
?
?
periodic disputes with Iran over Helmand water rights; Iran supports clients in country, private Pakistani and Saudi sources also are active; power struggles among various groups for control of Kabul, regional rivalries among emerging warlords, traditional tribal disputes continue; support to Islamic fighters in Tajikistan's civil war; border dispute with Pakistan (Durand Line); support to Islamic militants worldwide by some factions
arid to semiarid; cold winters and hot summers
mostly rugged mountains; plains in north and southwest
Amu Darya 258 m
Nowshak 7,485 m
natural gas, petroleum, coal, copper, talc, barites, sulfur, lead, zinc, iron ore, salt, precious and semiprecious stones
12
0
46
3
39
26600
soil degradation; overgrazing; deforestation (much of the remaining forests are being cut down for fuel and building materials); desertification
damaging earthquakes occur in Hindu Kush mountains; flooding
party to - Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Desertification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Life Conservation
22664136
43
4972469
4784900
54
6377231
5916954
3
325808
286774
4.78
43.03
18.16
22.94
1.05
1.04
1.08
1.14
1.06
149.70
45.85
46.43
45.24
6.14
Afghan(s)
Afghan
Pashtun 38%, Tajik 25%, Uzbek 6%, Hazara 19%, minor ethnic groups (Chahar Aimaks, Turkmen, Baloch, and others)
#
Sunni Muslim 84%, Shi'a Muslim 15%, other 1%
Pashtu 35%, Afghan Persian (Dari) 50%, Turkic languages (primarily Uzbek and Turkmen) 11%, 30 minor languages (primarily Balochi and Pashai) 4%, much bilingualism
note: there may be two new provinces of Nurestan (Nuristan) and Khowst
Independence: 19 August 1919 (from UK)
#
?
Victory of the Muslim Nation, 28 April; Remembrance Day for Martyrs and Disabled, 4 May; Independence Day, 19 August
none
a new legal system has not been adopted but the transitional government has declared it will follow Islamic law (Shari'a)
undetermined; previously males 15-50 years of age
President Burhanuddin RABBANI (interim president July-December 1992, president since 2 January 1993) was elected to a two-year term (later amended by multi-party agreement to 18 months) by a national shura (council); election last held 31 December 1992 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote NA; Vice President Mohammad NABI MOHAMMADI (since NA) was appointed by the president; note - in June 1994 failure to agree on a transfer mechanism resulted in RABBANI's extending his term to 28 December 1994; following the expiration of the term and while negotiations on the formation of a new government go on, RABBANI continues in office
Prime Minister Ahmad Shah AHMADZAI (since NA) was appointed by President RABBANI as de facto prime minister, but does not have any real authority; First Deputy Prime Minister Qutbuddin HELAL (since 17 March 1993) and Deputy Prime Minister Arsala RAHMANI (since 17 March 1993)
#
Council of Ministers; note - term of present government expired 28 December 1994; factional fighting since 1 January 1994 has kept government officers from actually occupying ministries and discharging government responsibilities; the government's authority to remove cabinet members, including the prime minister, following the expiration of their term is questionable
#
a unicameral parliament consisting of 205 members was chosen by a national shura (council) in January 1993; non-functioning as of June 1993
#
an interim Chief Justice of the Supreme Court has been appointed by the president in consultation with the prime minister, but a new court system has not yet been organized
current political organizations include Jamiat-i-Islami (Islamic Society), Burhanuddin RABBANI, Ahmad Shah MASOOD; Hizbi Islami-Gulbuddin (Islamic Party), Gulbuddin HIKMATYAR faction; Hizbi Islami-Khalis (Islamic Party), Yunis KHALIS faction; Ittihad-i-Islami Barai Azadi Afghanistan (Islamic Union for the Liberation of Afghanistan), Abdul Rasul SAYYAF; Harakat-Inqilab-i-Islami (Islamic Revolutionary Movement), Mohammad Nabi MOHAMMADI; Jabha-i-Najat-i-Milli Afghanistan (Afghanistan National Liberation Front), Sibghatullah MOJADDEDI; Mahaz-i-Milli-Islami (National Islamic Front), Sayed Ahamad GAILANI; Hizbi Wahdat-Khalili faction (Islamic Unity Party), Abdul Karim KHALILI; Hizbi Wahdat-Akbari faction (Islamic Unity Party), Mohammad Akbar AKBARI; Harakat-i-Islami (Islamic Movement), Mohammed Asif MOHSENI; Jumbesh-i-Milli Islami (National Islamic Movement), Abdul Rashid DOSTAM; Taliban (Religious Students Movement), Mohammad OMAR
note: the former ruling Watan Party has been disbanded
#
the former resistance commanders are the major power brokers in the countryside and their shuras (councils) are now administering most cities outside Kabul; tribal elders and religious students are trying to wrest control from them; ulema (religious scholars); tribal elders; religious students (talib)
three equal horizontal bands of green (top), white, and black with a gold emblem centered on the three bands; the emblem features a temple-like structure with Islamic inscriptions above and below, encircled by a wreath on the left and right and by a bolder Islamic inscription above, all of which are encircled by two crossed scimitars
Afghanistan is an extremely poor, landlocked country, highly dependent on farming (wheat especially) and livestock raising (sheep and goats). Economic considerations have played second fiddle to political and military upheavals during more than 16 years of war, including the nearly 10-year Soviet military occupation (which ended 15 February 1989). Over the past decade, one-third of the population fled the country, with Pakistan and Iran sheltering more than 6 million refugees. Now, only 1.0 million Afghan refugees remain in Pakistan and about 1.3 million in Iran. Another 1 million probably moved into and around urban areas within Afghanistan. Gross domestic product has fallen substantially over the past 15 years because of the loss of labor and capital and the disruption of trade and transport. Millions of people continue to suffer from insufficient food, clothing, housing, and lack of medical care. Numerical data are extremely shaky.
#
?
?
?
65
15
20
?
4980000
agriculture and animal husbandry 67.8%, industry 10.2%, construction 6.3%, commerce 5.0%, services and other 10.7% (1980 est.)
?
?
?
small-scale production of textiles, soap, furniture, shoes, fertilizer, and cement; handwoven carpets; natural gas, oil, coal, copper
?
0.48
550
39
wheat, fruits, nuts, karakul pelts; wool, mutton
an illicit cultivator of opium poppy and cannabis for the international drug trade; world's second-largest opium producer after Burma (1,250 metric tons in 1995) and a major source of hashish
188.20
fruits and nuts, handwoven carpets, wool, cotton, hides and pelts, precious and semi-precious gems
FSU countries, Pakistan, Iran, Germany, India, UK, Belgium, Luxembourg, Czechoslovakia
616.40
food and petroleum products; most consumer goods
FSU countries, Pakistan, Iran, Japan, Singapore, India, South Korea, Germany
2300
ODA, $NA
?
1 afghani (AF) = 100 puls
7000
21 March - 20 March
24.60
9.6 km 1.524-m gauge from Gushgy (Turkmenistan) to Towraghondi; 15 km 1,524-m gauge from Termiz (Uzbekistan) to Kheyrabad transshipment point on south bank of Amu Darya
21000
2,800 km
18,200 km (1984 est.)
1200
?
0
180
Kheyrabad, Shir Khan
?
?
?
?
35
3
4
2
?
7
?
3
13
3
?
3
31200
very limited telephone and telegraph service; 1 public telephone in Kabul
satellite earth stations - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean) linked only to Iran and 1 Intersputnik (Atlantic Ocean Region)
5
0
2
?
?
100000
NA; note - the military still does not exist on a national scale; some elements of the former Army, Air and Air Defense Forces, National Guard, Border Guard Forces, National Police Force (Sarandoi), and tribal militias still exist but are factionalized among the various mujahedin and former regime leaders
#
5549602
2976741
220532
?
?
@Albania
0
0$Tiranδ$4131$1982$300000$
#
European tribes settled in Albania ca.1000 BC. Later the area alternated
between Roman and Byzantine influences. After the middle-ages, the area fell
under Turkish rule and became islamized. Independence was proclaimed on 28
November 1912. The republic was formed in 1920. The dictator Ahmed bey Zogu
came to power in 1924 and ruled as King Zog I,1928-39, until Italy invaded.
Communist partisans took over in 1944 and the People's Republic was declared
in 1946. In 1968, following a "cultural revolution", all organized religion
was officially banned. Enver Hoxha died in 1985 after being in power for 40
years. His successor was Ramiz Alia. The People's Assembly has one chamber
with 250 members, elected by general election every four years. The real
political power in Albania is in the hands of the Albanian Workers Party.
First steps towards renewed democracy were taken in December 1990 with the
legalization of political parties.
#
AL
Southeastern Europe, bordering the Adriatic Sea and Ionian Sea, between Greece and Serbia and Montenegro
28750
27400
720
Greece 282 km, The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia 151 km, Serbia and Montenegro 287 km (114 km with Serbia, 173 km with Montenegro)
362
?
200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
?
?
12
the Albanian Government supports protection of the rights of ethnic Albanians outside of its borders; Albanian majority in Kosovo seeks independence from Serbian Republic; Albanians in Macedonia claim discrimination in education, access to public-sector jobs and representation in government; Albania is involved in negotiations with Greece over border demarcation, the treatment of Albania's ethnic Greek minority, and migrant Albanian workers in Greece
mild temperate; cool, cloudy, wet winters; hot, clear, dry summers; interior is cooler and wetter
mostly mountains and hills; small plains along coast
deforestation; soil erosion; water pollution from industrial and domestic effluents
destructive earthquakes; tsunami occur along southwestern coast
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change
3249136
34
570978
529147
60
910873
1049662
6
77799
110677
1.34
22.21
7.64
-1.17
1.08
1.08
0.87
0.70
0.92
49.20
67.92
64.91
71.17
2.65
Albanian(s)
Albanian
Albanian 95%, Greeks 3%, other 2% (Vlachs, Gypsies, Serbs, and Bulgarians) (1989 est.)
note: in 1989, other estimates of the Greek population ranged from 1% (official Albanian statistics) to 12% (from a Greek organization)
#
Muslim 70%, Albanian Orthodox 20%, Roman Catholic 10%
Albanian (Tosk is the official dialect), Greek
72
80
63
Republic of Albania
Albania
Republika e Shqiperise
Shqiperia
emerging democracy
Tirane
26 districts (rrethe, singular - rreth); Berat, Dibre, Durres, Elbasan, Fier, Gjirokaster, Gramsh, Kolonje, Korce, Kruje, Kukes, Lezhe, Librazhd, Lushnje, Mat, Mirdite, Permet, Pogradec, Puke, Sarande, Shkoder, Skrapar, Tepelene, Tirane, Tropoje, Vlore; note - some new administrative units may have been created
Independence: 28 November 1912 (from Ottoman Empire)
#
?
Independence Day, 28 November (1912)
an interim basic law was approved by the People's Assembly on 29 April 1991; a draft constitution was rejected by popular referendum in the fall of 1994 and a new draft is pending
has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
18 years of age; universal and compulsory
President of the Republic Sali BERISHA (since 9 April 1992) was elected for a five-year term by the People's Assembly
Prime Minister of the Council of Ministers Aleksander Gabriel MEKSI (since 10 April 1992) was appointed by the president
#
Council of Ministers was appointed by the president
#
unicameral
People's Assembly (Kuvendi Popullor): elections last held 22 March 1992; results - DP 62.29%, ASP 25.57%, SDP 4.33%, RP 3.15%, UHP 2.92%, other 1.74%; seats - (140 total) DP 92, ASP 38, SDP 7, RP 1, UHP 2
note: six members of the Democratic Party defected, making the present seating in the Assembly DP 86, ASP 38, SDP 7, DAP 6, RP 1, UHP 2
#
Supreme Court, chairman of the Supreme Court is elected by the People's Assembly
there are at least 28 political parties; most prominent are the Albanian Socialist Party (ASP; formerly the Albania Workers Party), Fatos NANO, first secretary; Democratic Party (DP); Albanian Republican Party (RP), Sabri GODO; Omonia (Greek minority party), Sotir QIRJAZATI, first secretary; Social Democratic Party (SDP), Skender GJINUSHI; Democratic Alliance Party (DAP), Neritan CEKA, chairman; Unity for Human Rights Party (UHP), Vasil MELO, chairman; Ecology Party (EP), Namik HOTI, chairman
An extremely poor country by European standards, Albania is making the difficult transition to a more open-market economy. The economy rebounded in 1993-95 after a severe depression accompanying the collapse of the previous centrally planned system in 1990 and 1991. Stabilization policies - including a strict monetary policy, public sector layoffs, and reduced social services - have improved the government's fiscal situation and reduced inflation. The recovery has been spurred by the remittances of some 20% of the labor force which works abroad, mostly in Greece and Italy. These remittances supplement GDP and help offset the large foreign trade deficit. Foreign assistance and humanitarian aid also supported the recovery. Most agricultural land was privatized in 1992, substantially improving peasant incomes. Albania's industrial sector ended its five-year, 78% decline in 1995, recording roughly 6% growth. A sharp fall in chromium prices has reduced hard currency receipts from the mining sector. Large segments of the population, especially those living in urban areas, continue to depend on humanitarian aid to meet basic food requirements. Unemployment remains a severe problem accounting for approximately one-fifth of the work force. Now that sanctions on Serbia have been suspended, the falloff in hard currency earnings from smuggling will aggravate unemployment problems. Growth is expected to continue in 1996, but could falter if workers' remittances from Greece are reduced or foreign assistance declines.
#
6
690
2242
55
?
?
16
1692000
agriculture (nearly all private) 49.5%, private sector 22.2%, state (nonfarm) sector 28.3% (including state-owned industry 7.8%)
transshipment point for Southwest Asian heroin transiting the Balkan route and cocaine from South America destined for Western Europe; limited opium production
Italy, US, Greece, The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia
601
machinery, consumer goods, grains
Italy, Greece, Bulgaria, Turkey, The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia
977
ODA, $NA
?
1 lek (L) = 100 qintars
95.65
calendar year
670
670 km 1.435-m gauge (1995)
18450
17,450 km
1,000 km (1991 est.)
43
145
55
64
Durres, Sarande, Shengjin, Vlore
11
52967
76887
?
11
?
3
?
2
?
2
1
1
2
?
?
55000
obsolete wire system; no longer provides a telephone for every village; in 1992, following the fall of the communist government, peasants cut the wire to about 1,000 villages and used it to build fences
inadequate; international traffic carried by microwave radio relay from the Tirane exchange to Italy and Greece
17
1
0
577000
9
300000
Army, Navy, Air and Air Defense Forces, Interior Ministry Troops, Border Guards
Algeria was under French occupation from 1830 until 1954. Algeria became
independent in July 1962 after 8 years of armed struggle against the French.
The Republic was declared on 25 September 1962. The constitution, which
prescribed a presidential single-party system, dates from 1963. On 19 June
1965, a military coup transferred power to defense-minister Colonel Houari
BomΘdienne and his Revolutionary Council. A new constitution, containing the
principles of the Charta, was accepted in November. This maintains the
single-party system. All citizens are entitled to vote from 19 years old.
Legislative power lies with the national Peoples Congress, consisting of 261
members, elected by general election every 5 years. A new constitution was
agreed by referendum at the end of February 1989.
Algeria will in future be known as a Socialist Republic.
#
DZ
Northern Africa, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Morocco and Tunisia
2381740
2381740
6343
Libya 982 km, Mali 1,376 km, Mauritania 463 km, Morocco 1,559 km, Niger 956 km, Tunisia 965 km, Western Sahara 42 km
998
?
?
?
32
12
part of southeastern region claimed by Libya; land boundary dispute with Tunisia settled in 1993
arid to semiarid; mild, wet winters with hot, dry summers along coast; drier with cold winters and hot summers on high plateau; sirocco is a hot, dust/sand-laden wind especially common in summer
mostly high plateau and desert; some mountains; narrow, discontinuous coastal plain
Chott Melrhir -40 m
Tahat 3,003 m
petroleum, natural gas, iron ore, phosphates, uranium, lead, zinc
3
0
13
2
82
3360
soil erosion from overgrazing and other poor farming practices; desertification; dumping of raw sewage, petroleum refining wastes, and other industrial effluents is leading to the pollution of rivers and coastal waters; Mediterranean Sea, in particular, becoming polluted from oil wastes, soil erosion, and fertilizer runoff; inadequate supplies of potable water
mountainous areas subject to severe earthquakes; mud slides
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban
29183032
40
5910543
5701647
56
8319650
8162816
4
510308
578068
2.21
28.51
5.90
-0.49
1.04
1.04
1.02
0.88
1.02
48.70
68.31
67.22
69.46
3.59
Algerian(s)
Algerian
Arab-Berber 99%, European less than 1%
#
Sunni Muslim (state religion) 99%, Christian and Jewish 1%
Arabic (official), French, Berber dialects
61.60
73.90
49
Democratic and Popular Republic of Algeria
Algeria
Al Jumhuriyah al Jaza'iriyah ad Dimuqratiyah ash Shabiyah
Al Jaza'ir
republic
Algiers
48 provinces (wilayas, singular - wilaya); Adrar, Ain Defla, Ain Temouchent, Alger, Annaba, Batna, Bechar, Bejaia, Biskra, Blida, Bordj Bou Arreridj, Bouira, Boumerdes, Chlef, Constantine, Djelfa, El Bayadh, El Oued, El Tarf, Ghardaia, Guelma, Illizi, Jijel, Khenchela, Laghouat, Mascara, Medea, Mila, Mostaganem, M'Sila, Naama, Oran, Ouargla, Oum el Bouaghi, Relizane, Saida, Setif, Sidi Bel Abbes, Skikda, Souk Ahras, Tamanghasset, Tebessa, Tiaret, Tindouf, Tipaza, Tissemsilt, Tizi Ouzou, Tlemcen
Independence: 5 July 1962 (from France)
#
?
Anniversary of the Revolution, 1 November (1954)
19 November 1976, effective 22 November 1976; revised 3 November 1988 and 23 February 1989
socialist, based on French and Islamic law; judicial review of legislative acts in ad hoc Constitutional Council composed of various public officials, including several Supreme Court justices; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
18 years of age; universal
President Liamine ZEROUAL (appointed president 31 January 1994, elected president 16 November 1995) was elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 16 November 1995 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote NA
Prime Minister Ahmed OUYAHIA (since 31 December 1995) was appointed by the president
#
Council of Ministers was appointed by the prime minister
#
unicameral; note - suspended since 1992
National People's Assembly (Al-Majlis Ech-Chaabi Al-Watani): first-round elections held 26 December 1991; second round canceled by the military after President BENDJEDID resigned 11 January 1992, effectively suspending the assembly (next election promised by late 1996 or early 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (281 total) the fundamentalist FIS won 188 of the 231 seats contested in the first round
#
Supreme Court (Cour Supreme)
Islamic Salvation Front (FIS, outlawed April 1992), Ali BELHADJ, Dr. Abassi MADANI, Rabeh KEBIR (self-exile in Germany); National Liberation Front (FLN), Boualem BENHAMOUDA, secretary general; Socialist Forces Front (FFS), Hocine Ait AHMED, secretary general (self-exile in Switzerland); Hamas, Mahfoud NAHNAH, chairman; Rally for Culture and Democracy (RCD), Said SAADI, secretary general; Algerian Renewal Party (PRA), Noureddine BOUKROUH, chairman
note: the government established a multiparty system in September 1989 and, as of 31 December 1990, over 50 legal parties existed
two equal vertical bands of green (hoist side) and white with a red, five-pointed star within a red crescent; the crescent, star, and color green are traditional symbols of Islam (the state religion)
The hydrocarbons sector is the backbone of the economy, accounting for roughly 57% of government revenues, 25% of GDP, and almost all export earnings; Algeria has the fifth-largest reserves of natural gas in the world and ranks fourteenth for oil. Algiers' efforts to reform one of the most centrally planned economies in the Arab world began after the 1986 collapse of world oil prices plunged the country into a severe recession. In 1989, the government launched a comprehensive, IMF-supported program to achieve economic stabilization and to introduce market mechanisms into the economy. Despite substantial progress toward economic adjustment, in 1992 the reform drive stalled as Algiers became embroiled in political turmoil. In September 1993, a new government was formed, and one priority was the resumption and acceleration of the structural adjustment process. Buffeted by the slump in world oil prices and burdened with a heavy foreign debt, Algiers concluded a one-year standby arrangement with the IMF in April 1994. Following a Paris Club debt rescheduling in 1995 and a robust harvest, the economy experienced a strong recovery and key economic improvements.
#
3.50
1580
46109
12
50
38
28
6200000
government 29.5%, agriculture 22%, construction and public works 16.2%, industry 13.6%, commerce and services 13.5%, transportation and communication 5.2% (1989)
excellent service in north but sparse in south; domestic satellite system with 12 earth stations (20 additional domestic earth stations are planned)
5 submarine cables; microwave radio relay to Italy, France, Spain, Morocco, and Tunisia; coaxial cable to Morocco and Tunisia; participant in Medarabtel; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean), 1 Intersputnik, and 1 Arabsat
26
0
0
6000000
18
2000000
National Popular Army, Navy, Air Force, Territorial Air Defense, National Gendarmerie
#
7391946
4534267
326229
1300000000
2.70
@American Samoa
United States
#
#
Oceania, group of islands in the South Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from Hawaii to New Zealand
199
199
?
?
116
?
?
200
?
12
none
tropical marine, moderated by southeast trade winds; annual rainfall averages 124 inches; rainy season from November to April, dry season from May to October; little seasonal temperature variation
five volcanic islands with rugged peaks and limited coastal plains, two coral atolls (Rose Island, Swains Island)
Pacific Ocean 0 m
Lata 966 m
pumice, pumicite
10
5
0
75
10
?
limited natural fresh water resources; in many areas of the island, water supplies come from roof catchments
typhoons common from December to March
NA
59566
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
3.77
35.75
4.01
6
?
?
?
?
?
18.78
72.91
71.03
74.85
4.24
American Samoan(s)
American Samoan
Samoan (Polynesian) 89%, Caucasian 2%, Tongan 4%, other 5%
#
Christian Congregationalist 50%, Roman Catholic 20%, Protestant denominations and other 30%
Samoan (closely related to Hawaiian and other Polynesian languages), English
97
98
97
Territory of American Samoa
American Samoa
?
?
unincorporated and unorganized territory of the US; administered by the US Department of Interior, Office of Territorial and International Affairs
Pago Pago
none (territory of the US)
Independence: none (territory of the US)
#
?
Territorial Flag Day, 17 April (1900)
ratified 1966, in effect 1967
NA
18 years of age; universal
President (of the US) William Jefferson CLINTON (since 20 January 1993) and Vice President Albert GORE, Jr. (since 20 January 1993) are popularly elected by the citizens of the US
Governor A. P. LUTALI (since 3 January 1993) and Lieutenant Governor Tauese P. SUNIA (since 3 January 1993) were elected for a four-year term by popular vote; election last held 3 November 1992 (next to be held NA November 1996); results - A. P. LUTALI (Democrat) 53%, Peter Tali COLEMAN (Republican) 36%
#
?
#
bicameral Legislative Assembly (Fono)
House of Representatives: elections last held 8 November 1994 (next to be held NA November 1996); results - representatives popularly elected from 17 house districts; percent of vote by party NA; seats - (21 total, 20 elected, and 1 nonvoting delegate from Swains Island); number of seats by party NA
Senate: elections last held 3 November 1992 (next to be held NA November 1996); results - senators elected by village chiefs from 12 senate districts; percent of vote by party NA; seats - (18 total) number of seats by party NA
US House of Representatives: elections last held 8 November 1994 (next to be held NA November 1996); results - Eni R. F. H. FALEOMAVAEGA reelected as delegate
#
High Court, chief justice and associate justices are appointed by the US Secretary of the Interior
NA
#
?
#
ESCAP (associate), Interpol (subbureau), IOC, SPC
blue with a white triangle edged in red that is based on the outer side and extends to the hoist side; a brown and white American bald eagle flying toward the hoist side is carrying two traditional Samoan symbols of authority, a staff and a war club
Economic activity is strongly linked to the US, with which American Samoa conducts 80%-90% of its foreign trade. Tuna fishing and tuna processing plants are the backbone of the private sector, with canned tuna the primary export. The tuna canneries and the government are by far the two largest employers. Other economic activities include a slowly developing tourist industry. Transfers from the US Government add substantially to American Samoa's economic well-being.
#
?
8100
482
?
?
?
?
14400
government 33%, tuna canneries 34%, other 33% (1990)
materials for canneries 56%, food 8%, petroleum products 7%, machinery and parts 6%
US 62%, Japan 9%, NZ 7%, Australia 11%, Fiji 4%, other 7%
?
ODA, $NA
?
1 US dollar (US$) = 100 cents
?
1 October - 30 September
?
350
150 km
200 km
?
?
?
?
Aanu'u (new construction), Auasi, Faleosao, Ofu, Pago Pago, Ta'u
?
?
?
?
3
?
1
?
?
2
?
?
?
?
?
?
8399
good telex, telegraph, and facsimile services; domestic satellite system with 1 Comsat earth station
satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Pacific Ocean)
1
1
0
?
1
8000
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
@Andorra
0
0$Andorra-La-Vella$4251$153$19000$
#
Throughout the ages, Andorra has formed part of numerous imperia: Rome, the
Visigoths, the Mores? In about 800AD, the part of Spain to the north of the
Ebro was lost to France. This area, known as the Spanish Mark, was to form a
Christian buffer-zone against the Islam to the south. Andorra came under
control of the Bishop of Urgel. For the defense of Andorra, he enlisted the
help of the Spanish nobleman Caboet. This task passed by inheritance to the
French Count of Foix. Foix assumed that he had certain rights to Andorra and
came into conflict with the bishop, eventually leading to the ParΘage of
1278, whereby double-sovereignty was arranged. The rights of the house of
Foix passed through inheritance to the French throne. Up to the present day,
this dual leadership is maintained. Internal legislation is carried out by
the 'General Council of the Valleys', consisting of 28 members, 4 for each
of the 7 districts, elected every 4 years. Women's suffrage dates from 1970.
The Council nominates the Syndic Procureur GΘnΘral and his assistant; until
1982 they had full executive powers. In that year, however, the General
Council nominated an Executive Council for the first time.
#
AND
Southwestern Europe, between France and Spain
450
450
125
France 60 km, Spain 65 km
0
?
?
?
?
?
none
temperate; snowy, cold winters and warm, dry summers
rugged mountains dissected by narrow valleys
Riu Valira 840 m
Coma Pedrosa 2,946 m
hydropower, mineral water, timber, iron ore, lead
2
0
56
22
20
?
deforestation; overgrazing of mountain meadows contributes to soil erosion
snowslides, avalanches
NA
72766
16
5829
5851
73
28724
24757
11
3718
3887
2.96
10.20
2.90
22.29
0.96
1
1.16
0.96
1.11
2.20
90.94
86.47
95.20
1.14
Andorran(s)
Andorran
Spanish 61%, Andorran 30%, French 6%, other 3%
#
Roman Catholic (predominant)
Catalan (official), French, Castilian
?
?
?
Principality of Andorra
Andorra
Principat d'Andorra
Andorra
parliamentary democracy (since March 1993) that retains as its heads of state a coprincipality; the two princes are the president of France and Spanish bishop of Seo de Urgel, who are represented locally by officials called veguers
Andorra la Vella
7 parishes (parroquies, singular - parroquia); Andorra, Canillo, Encamp, La Massana, Les Escaldes, Ordino, Sant Julia de Loria
Independence: 1278
#
?
Mare de Deu de Meritxell, 8 September
Andorra's first written constitution was drafted in 1991; adopted 14 March 1993
based on French and Spanish civil codes; no judicial review of legislative acts; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
18 years of age; universal
French Coprince Jacques CHIRAC (since 17 May 1995) and Spanish Episcopal Coprince Monseigneur Juan MARTI Alanis (since 31 January 1971); each coprince is represented by a veguer (current names NA)
Executive Council President Marc FORNE Molne (since 21 December 1994) was elected by the General Council and formally appointed by the coprinces
#
Executive Council was designated by the executive council president
#
unicameral
General Council of the Valleys (Consell General de las Valls: elections last held 12 December 1993 (next to be held NA 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (28 total) AND 8, UL 5, ND 5, CNA 2, IDN 2, other 6
#
Supreme Court of Andorra at Perpignan (France) for civil cases, two civil judges appointed by the veguers, one appeals judge appointed by the co-princes alternately; Ecclesiastical Court of the Bishop of Seo de Urgel (Spain) for civil cases; Tribunal of the Courts (Tribunal des Cortes) for criminal cases, presided over by the two civil judges, one appeals judge, the veguers, and two members of the General Council
National Democratic Group (AND), Oscar RIBAS Reig and Jordi FARRAS; Liberal Union (UL), Francesc CERQUEDA; New Democracy (ND), Jaume BARTOMEU; Andorran National Coalition (CNA), Antoni CERQUEDA; National Democratic Initiative (IDN), Vincenc MATEU; Liberal Union (UL), Marc FORNE
note: there are two other small parties
#
?
#
CE, ECE, IFRCS, Interpol, IOC, ITU, UN, UNESCO, WIPO
three equal vertical bands of blue (hoist side), yellow, and red with the national coat of arms centered in the yellow band; the coat of arms features a quartered shield; similar to the flags of Chad and Romania that do not have a national coat of arms in the center
Tourism, the mainstay of Andorra's tiny, well-to-do economy, accounts for roughly 80% of GDP. An estimated 13 million tourists visit annually, attracted by Andorra's duty-free status and by its summer and winter resorts. Andorra's comparative advantage has recently eroded as the economies of neighboring France and Spain have been opened up, providing broader availability of goods and lower tariffs. The banking sector, with its "tax haven" status, also contributes substantially to the economy. Agricultural production is limited by a scarcity of arable land, and most food has to be imported. The principal livestock activity is sheep raising. Manufacturing consists mainly of cigarettes, cigars, and furniture. Andorra is a member of the EU Customs Union and is treated as an EU member for trade in manufactured goods (no tariffs) and as a non-EU member for agricultural products.
small quantities of tobacco, rye, wheat, barley, oats, vegetables; sheep raising
?
46.20
electricity, tobacco products, furniture
France 35%, Spain 59%
920.20
consumer goods, food
France, Spain, US 2.6% (1992)
?
?
?
1 French franc (F) = 100 centimes; 1 peseta (Pta) = 100 centimos; the French and Spanish currencies are used
5.01
calendar year
?
269
198 km
71 km (1991 est.)
?
?
?
?
none
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
21258
modern system with microwave radio relay connections between exchanges
landline circuits to France and Spain
1
0
0
10000
0
7000
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
@Angola
0
0$Luanda$-883$1325$200000$
1$Lobito$-1233$1360$150000$
#
The Portuguese navigator Diego Cπo landed in the mouth of the Za∩re in 1483.
The local tribes, including the Ngola, after whom the country was later
named, were quickly converted to christianity. The Berlin Conference of
1884-1885 divided Africa, and Portugal received Cabinda in addition to
Angola. Angola was officially declared independent in 1975. The civil war
which ensued was dominated in 1976 by the MPLA. The first MPLA congress, in
December 1977, reorganized the movement into a Marxist-Lenninist party, the
MPLA-Partido Trabalho (MPLA-PT), or MPLA-Workers Party. All other parties
were banned. Government is executed by the National People's Congress, with
260 members, each elected for a three-year term. Candidates are selected by
Election-committees, made up of 'loyal citizens'. On 11 November 1980 the
People's Council sat for the first time, taking over the government of the
country from the Revolutionary Council. Executive power is in the hands of
the president, who is chairman of both the Council of Ministers and the
MPLA-PT.
#
?
Southern Africa, bordering the South Atlantic Ocean, between Namibia and Zaire
1246700
1246700
5198
Congo 201 km, Namibia 1,376 km, Zaire 2,511 km, Zambia 1,110 km
1600
?
?
?
200
20
none
semiarid in south and along coast to Luanda; north has cool, dry season (May to October) and hot, rainy season (November to April)
narrow coastal plain rises abruptly to vast interior plateau
Atlantic Ocean 0 m
Moro de Moco 2,620 m
petroleum, diamonds, iron ore, phosphates, copper, feldspar, gold, bauxite, uranium
2
0
23
43
32
?
population pressures contributing to overuse of pastures and subsequent soil erosion; desertification; deforestation of tropical rain forest attributable to the international demand for tropical timber and domestic use as a fuel; deforestation contributing to loss of biodiversity; soil erosion contributing to water pollution and siltation of rivers and dams; inadequate supplies of potable water
locally heavy rainfall causes periodic flooding on the plateau
party to - Law of the Sea; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Desertification
10342899
45
2340804
2275689
53
2748417
2706295
2
128067
143627
2.68
44.58
17.66
-0.14
1.05
1.03
1.02
0.89
1.02
138.90
46.80
44.65
49.06
6.35
Angolan(s)
Angolan
Ovimbundu 37%, Kimbundu 25%, Bakongo 13%, mestico (mixed European and Native African) 2%, European 1%, other 22%
#
indigenous beliefs 47%, Roman Catholic 38%, Protestant 15% (est.)
Portuguese (official), Bantu and other African languages
42
56
28
Republic of Angola
Angola
Republica de Angola
Angola
transitional government nominally a multiparty democracy with a strong presidential system
11 November 1975; revised 7 January 1978, 11 August 1980, 6 March 1991, and 26 August 1992
based on Portuguese civil law system and customary law; recently modified to accommodate political pluralism and increased use of free markets
18 years of age; universal
President Jose Eduardo DOS SANTOS (since 21 September 1979) was originally elected without opposition under a one party system and stood for election in Angola's first multiparty elections on 29-30 September 1992; DOS SANTOS received 49.6% of the total vote, making a run-off election necessary between him and second-place Jonas SAVIMBI; the run-off was not held and SAVIMBI's National Union for the Total Independence of Angola (UNITA) disputed the results of the first election; the civil war was resumed
Prime Minister Marcolino Jose Carlos MOCO (since 2 December 1992) was appointed by the president and is answerable to the Assembly
#
Council of Ministers was appointed by the president
#
unicameral
National Assembly (Assembleia Nacional): elections last held 29-30 September 1992 (next to be held NA); results (disputed) - percentage of vote by party NA; seats (223 total) - seats by party NA
#
Supreme Court (Tribunal da Relacao), judges of the Supreme Court are appointed by the president
Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA), led by Jose Eduardo DOS SANTOS, is the ruling party and has been in power since 1975; National Union for the Total Independence of Angola (UNITA), led by Jonas SAVIMBI, is a legal party despite its history of armed resistance to the government; five minor parties have small numbers of seats in the National Assembly
#
Front for the Liberation of the Enclave of Cabinda (FLEC), N'ZITA Tiago, leader of largest faction (FLEC-FAC)
note: FLEC is waging a small-scale, highly factionalized, armed struggle for the independence of Cabinda Province
two equal horizontal bands of red (top) and black with a centered yellow emblem consisting of a five-pointed star within half a cogwheel crossed by a machete (in the style of a hammer and sickle)
Angola is an economy in disarray. Despite its abundant natural resources, output per capita is among the world's lowest. Subsistence agriculture provides the main livelihood for 80%-90% of the population but accounts for less than 15% of GDP. Oil production and the supporting activities are vital to the economy, contributing about 50% to GDP. Despite the signing of a peace accord in November 1994 between the Angola Government and the UNITA insurgents, sporadic fighting continues and many farmers remain reluctant to return to their fields. As a result, much of the country's food must still be imported. To take advantage of its rich resources - notably gold, diamonds, extensive forests, Atlantic fisheries, and arable land, in addition to its large oil deposits - Angola will need to observe the cease-fire, implement the peace agreement, and reform government policies.
#
4
410
4241
12
56
32
20
2783000
agriculture 85%, industry 15% (1985 est.)
24
928
2500
petroleum; diamonds, iron ore, phosphates, feldspar, bauxite, uranium, and gold; fish processing; food processing; brewing; tobacco; sugar; textiles; cement; basic metal products
increasingly used as a transshipment point for cocaine and heroin destined for Western Europe and other African states
3000
oil, diamonds, refined petroleum products, gas, coffee, sisal, fish and fish products, timber, cotton
US, France, Germany, Netherlands, Brazil
1600.00
capital equipment (machinery and electrical equipment), food, vehicles and spare parts, textiles and clothing, medicines, substantial military deliveries
Portugal, Brazil, US, France, Spain
12000
ODA, $189 million (1993)
?
1 new kwanza (NKz) = 100 lwei
900000
calendar year
2952
2,798 km 1.067-m gauge; 154 km 0.600-m gauge
72626
18,157 km
54,469 km (1992 est.)
1295
179
?
?
Ambriz, Cabinda, Lobito, Luanda, Malogo, Namibe, Porto Amboim, Soyo
12
63776
99863
cargo 11, oil tanker 1 (1995 est.)
143
3
8
11
4
40
1
4
24
48
?
?
78000
limited system of wire, microwave radio relay, and tropospheric scatter
Army, Navy, Air and Air Defense Forces, National Police Force
#
2373087
1195176
106456
1100000000
31
@Anguilla
United Kingdom
#
#
[GB]
Caribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, east of Puerto Rico
91
91
?
?
61
?
?
?
200
3
none
tropical; moderated by northeast trade winds
flat and low-lying island of coral and limestone
Caribbean Sea 0 m
Crocus Hill 65 m
salt, fish, lobster
?
?
?
?
?
?
supplies of potable water sometimes cannot meet increasing demand largely because of poor distribution system
frequent hurricanes and other tropical storms (July to October)
NA
10424
28
1491
1450
64
3418
3275
8
342
448
3.45
17.84
5.66
22.35
1.04
1.03
1.04
0.76
1.02
23
76.70
73.75
79.74
2.04
Anguillan(s)
Anguillan
black African
#
Anglican 40%, Methodist 33%, Seventh-Day Adventist 7%, Baptist 5%, Roman Catholic 3%, other 12%
English (official)
95
95
95
none
Anguilla
?
?
dependent territory of the UK
The Valley
none (dependent territory of the UK)
Independence: none (dependent territory of the UK)
#
?
Anguilla Day, 30 May
Anguilla Constitutional Order 1 April 1982; amended 1990
based on English common law
18 years of age; universal
Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952) is a hereditary monarch; represented by Governor Alan HOOLE (since 1 November 1995)
Chief Minister Hubert HUGHES (since 16 March 1994) was appointed by the governor from members of the House of Assembly
#
Executive Council was appointed by the governor from among the elected members of the House of Assembly
#
unicameral
House of Assembly: elections last held 16 March 1994 (next to be held March 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (11 total, 7 elected) ANA 2, AUP 2, ADP 2, independent 1
#
High Court, judge provided by Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court
Anguilla National Alliance (ANA), David CARFY; Anguilla United Party (AUP), Hubert HUGHES; Anguilla Democratic Party (ADP), Victor BANKS
blue with the flag of the UK in the upper hoist-side quadrant and the Anguillan coat of arms centered in the outer half of the flag; the coat of arms depicts three orange dolphins in an interlocking circular design on a white background with blue wavy water below
Anguilla has few natural resources, and the economy depends heavily on tourism, offshore banking, lobster fishing, and remittances from emigrants. Output growth has averaged about 7% in recent years, mainly as a result of boom in tourism thanks to economic expansion in North America and the UK. The economy, and especially the tourism sector, suffered a setback in late 1995 due to the effects of Hurricane Luis in September. Agricultural output had only just begun to recover from a drought in 1994 when Luis hit. Anguillan officials have put substantial effort into developing the offshore financing sector. A comprehensive package of financial services legislation was enacted in late 1994. In the medium term, prospects for the economy will depend on the tourism sector and, therefore, on continuing income growth in the industrialized nations.
#
6.50
1500
16
?
?
?
4
4400
commerce 36%, services 29%, construction 18%, transportation and utilities 10%, manufacturing 3%, agriculture/fishing/forestry/mining 4%
microwave radio relay to island of Saint Martin (Guadeloupe and Netherlands Antilles)
3
1
0
2000
0
?
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
@Antarctica
0
#
Antarctic Treaty Summary: The Antarctic Treaty, signed on 1 December 1959 and entered into force on 23 June 1961, establishes the legal framework for the management of Antarctica. Administration is carried out through consultative member meetings - the 18th Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting was in Japan in April 1993. Currently, there are 42 treaty member nations: 26 consultative and 16 acceding. Consultative (voting) members include the seven nations that claim portions of Antarctica as national territory (some claims overlap) and 19 nonclaimant nations. The US and some other nations that have made no claims have reserved the right to do so. The US does not recognize the claims of others. The year in parentheses indicates when an acceding nation was voted to full consultative (voting) status, while no date indicates the country was an original 1959 treaty signatory. Claimant nations are - Argentina, Australia, Chile, France, New Zealand, Norway, and the UK. Nonclaimant consultative nations are - Belgium, Brazil (1983), China (1985), Ecuador (1990), Finland (1989), Germany (1981), India (1983), Italy (1987), Japan, South Korea (1989), Netherlands (1990), Peru (1989), Poland (1977), South Africa, Spain (1988), Sweden (1988), Uruguay (1985), the US, and Russia. Acceding (nonvoting) members, with year of accession in parentheses, are - Austria (1987), Bulgaria (1978), Canada (1988), Colombia (1988), Cuba (1984), Czech Republic (1993), Denmark (1965), Greece (1987), Guatemala (1991), Hungary (1984), North Korea (1987), Papua New Guinea (1981), Romania (1971), Slovakia (1993), Switzerland (1990), and Ukraine (1992).
Article 1: area to be used for peaceful purposes only; military activity, such as weapons testing, is prohibited, but military personnel and equipment may be used for scientific research or any other peaceful purpose
Article 2: freedom of scientific investigation and cooperation shall continue
Article 3: free exchange of information and personnel in cooperation with the UN and other international agencies
Article 4: does not recognize, dispute, or establish territorial claims and no new claims shall be asserted while the treaty is in force
Article 5: prohibits nuclear explosions or disposal of radioactive wastes
Article 6: includes under the treaty all land and ice shelves south of 60 degrees 00 minutes south
Article 7: treaty-state observers have free access, including aerial observation, to any area and may inspect all stations, installations, and equipment; advance notice of all activities and of the introduction of military personnel must be given
Article 8: allows for jurisdiction over observers and scientists by their own states
Article 9: frequent consultative meetings take place among member nations
Article 10: treaty states will discourage activities by any country in Antarctica that are contrary to the treaty
Article 11: disputes to be settled peacefully by the parties concerned or, ultimately, by the ICJ
Articles 12, 13, 14: deal with upholding, interpreting, and amending the treaty among involved nations
#
continent mostly south of the Antarctic Circle
14000000
14000000
?
?
17968
?
?
?
?
?
Antarctic Treaty defers claims (see Antarctic Treaty Summary below); sections (some overlapping) claimed by Argentina, Australia, Chile, France (Adelie Land), New Zealand (Ross Dependency), Norway (Queen Maud Land), and UK; the US and most other nations do not recognize the territorial claims of other nations and have made no claims themselves (the US reserves the right to do so); no formal claims have been made in the sector between 90 degrees west and 150 degrees west
severe low temperatures vary with latitude, elevation, and distance from the ocean; East Antarctica is colder than West Antarctica because of its higher elevation; Antarctic Peninsula has the most moderate climate; higher temperatures occur in January along the coast and average slightly below freezing
about 98% thick continental ice sheet and 2% barren rock, with average elevations between 2,000 and 4,000 meters; mountain ranges up to about 5,000 meters; ice-free coastal areas include parts of southern Victoria Land, Wilkes Land, the Antarctic Peninsula area, and parts of Ross Island on McMurdo Sound; glaciers form ice shelves along about half of the coastline, and floating ice shelves constitute 11% of the area of the continent
Indian Ocean 0 m
Vinson Massif 5,140 m
none presently exploited; iron ore, chromium, copper, gold, nickel, platinum and other minerals, and coal and hydrocarbons have been found in small, uncommercial quantities
0
0
0
0
100
0
in October 1991 it was reported that the ozone shield, which protects the Earth's surface from harmful ultraviolet radiation, had dwindled to the lowest level recorded over Antarctica since 1975 when measurements were first taken
katabatic (gravity-driven) winds blow coastward from the high interior; frequent blizzards form near the foot of the plateau; cyclonic storms form over the ocean and move clockwise along the coast; volcanism on Deception Island and isolated areas of West Antarctica; other seismic activity rare and weak
NA
4115
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
none
Antarctica
?
?
see Antarctic Treaty
?
?
#
?
?
?
US law, including certain criminal offenses by or against US nationals, such as murder, may apply to areas not under jurisdiction of other countries. Some US laws directly apply to Antarctica. For example, the Antarctic Conservation Act, 16 U.S.C. section 2401 et seq., provides civil and criminal penalties for the following activities, unless authorized by regulation of statute: The taking of native mammals or birds; the introduction of nonindigenous plants and animals; entry into specially protected or scientific areas; the discharge or disposal of pollutants; and the importation into the US of certain items from Antarctica. Violation of the Antarctic Conservation Act carries penalties of up to $10,000 in fines and 1 year in prison. The Departments of Treasury, Commerce, Transportation, and Interior share enforcement responsibilities. Public Law 95-541, the US Antarctic Conservation Act of 1978, requires expeditions from the US to Antarctica to notify, in advance, the Office of Oceans and Polar Affairs, Room 5801, Department of State, Washington, DC 20520, which reports such plans to other nations as required by the Antarctic Treaty. For more information contact Permit Office, Office of Polar Programs, National Science Foundation, Arlington, Virginia 22230 (703) 306-1031.
?
?
?
#
?
#
?
#
?
?
#
?
#
?
?
No economic activity at present except for fishing off the coast and small-scale tourism, both based abroad.
Transportation
#
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
none; offshore anchorage
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
NA
NA
?
?
?
?
?
?
the Antarctic Treaty prohibits any measures of a military nature, such as the establishment of military bases and fortifications, the carrying out of military maneuvers, or the testing of any type of weapon; it permits the use of military personnel or equipment for scientific research or for any other peaceful purposes
#
?
?
?
?
?
@Antigua And Barbuda
0
0$St-John's$1709$-6184$10000$
#
Antigua was discovered by Columbus in 1493. Attempts at settlement by the
Spanish in 1520, and the French in 1629, were soon discontinued because of
the dry climate. The island became british territory in 1632 when Thomas
Warner created a prisoner-of-war camp there. Because the prisoners were
unable to work in the sugar plantations, they were soon replaced by African
slaves. Economic decline resulted from the abolition of slavery in 1834. The
island of Barbuda became the property of the Codrington family in 1680. In
the 19th century it passed to the British crown. Antigua was used as a
British naval base from 1725 until 1854. Since 1940 there has been an
American naval base at Parham. Antigua and Barbuda has been independent
since 1981, though remains part of the British Commonwealth. It is a
parliamentary state with an appointed Senate of 17 members and an elected
House of Representatives, also with 17 members.
#
AG
Caribbean, islands between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, east-southeast of Puerto Rico
440
440
?
?
153
24
200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
200
?
12
none
tropical marine; little seasonal temperature variation
mostly low-lying limestone and coral islands with some higher volcanic areas
Caribbean Sea 0 m
Boggy Peak 402 m
negligible; pleasant climate fosters tourism
18
0
7
16
59
?
water management - a major concern because of limited natural fresh water resources - is further hampered by the clearing of trees to increase crop production, causing rainfall to run off quickly
hurricanes and tropical storms (July to October); periodic droughts
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Desertification
65647
25
8386
8043
69
22589
22548
6
1820
2261
0.76
16.83
5.32
-3.90
1.05
1.04
1
0.80
1
17.20
73.64
71.55
75.84
1.68
Antiguan(s), Barbudan(s)
Antiguan, Barbudan
black, British, Portuguese, Lebanese, Syrian
#
Anglican (predominant), other Protestant sects, some Roman Catholic
English (official), local dialects
89
90
88
none
Antigua and Barbuda
?
?
parliamentary democracy
Saint John's
6 parishes and 2 dependencies*; Barbuda*, Redonda*, Saint George, Saint John, Saint Mary, Saint Paul, Saint Peter, Saint Philip
Independence: 1 November 1981 (from UK)
#
?
Independence Day, 1 November (1981)
1 November 1981
based on English common law
18 years of age; universal
Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952) is a hereditary monarch, represented by Governor General James B. CARLISLE (since NA 1993) who was chosen by the queen on advice from the prime minister
Prime Minister Lester Bryant BIRD (since 8 March 1994) was appointed by the governor general
#
Council of Ministers was appointed by the governor general on the advice of the prime minister
#
bicameral Parliament
Senate: 17- member body appointed by the governor general
House of Representatives: elections last held 8 March 1994 (next to be held NA 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (17 total) ALP 11, UPP 5, independent 1
#
Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court (based in Saint Lucia), one judge of the Supreme Court is a resident of the islands and presides over the Court of Summary Jurisdiction
Antigua Labor Party (ALP), Lester Bryant BIRD; United Progressive Party (UPP), headed by Baldwin SPENCER, a coalition of three opposition political parties-the United National Democratic Party (UNDP); the Antigua Caribbean Liberation Movement (ACLM); and the Progressive Labor Movement (PLM)
#
Antigua Trades and Labor Union (ATLU), William ROBINSON; People's Democratic Movement (PDM), Hugh MARSHALL
#
ACP, C, Caricom, CDB, ECLAC, FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat (nonsignatory user), Interpol, IOC, ISO (subscriber), ITU, NAM (observer), OAS, OECS, OPANAL, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WMO, WTrO
red with an inverted isosceles triangle based on the top edge of the flag; the triangle contains three horizontal bands of black (top), light blue, and white with a yellow rising sun in the black band
Tourism continues to be by far the dominant activity in the economy but the combined share in GDP of transport and communications, trade, and public utilities has increased markedly in recent years. Tourism's direct contribution to output in 1994 was about 20%. In addition, increased tourist arrivals helped spur growth in the construction and transport sectors. The dual island nation's agricultural production is mainly directed to the domestic market; the sector is constrained by the limited water supply and labor shortages that reflect the pull of higher wages in tourism and construction. Manufacturing - which accounts for 3.5% of GDP - comprises enclave-type assembly for export with major products being bedding, handicrafts, and electronic components. Prospects for economic growth in the medium term will continue to depend on income growth in the industrialized world, especially in the US, which accounts for about half of all tourist arrivals.
#
4.20
4770
313
3.50
19.30
77.20
3.50
30000
commerce and services 82%, agriculture 11%, industry 7% (1983)
a long-time but relatively minor transshipment point for narcotics bound for the US and Europe and recent transshipment point for heroin from Europe to the US; more significant as a drug money laundering center
40.90
petroleum products 48%, manufactures 23%, food and live animals 4%, machinery and transport equipment 17%
OECS 26%, Barbados 15%, Guyana 4%, Trinidad and Tobago 2%, US 0.3%
443.80
food and live animals, machinery and transport equipment, manufactures, chemicals, oil
US 27%, UK 16%, Canada 4%, OECS 3%, other 50%
377
?
?
1 EC dollar (EC$) = 100 cents
2.70
1 April - 31 March
77
64 km 0.760-m gauge; 13 km 0.610-m gauge (used almost exclusively for handling sugarcane)
1 coaxial submarine cable; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean); tropospheric scatter to Saba (Netherlands Antilles) and Guadeloupe
4
2
2
?
2
28000
Royal Antigua and Barbuda Defense Force, Royal Antigua and Barbuda Police Force (includes the Coast Guard)
#
?
?
?
1400000
1
@Arctic Ocean
0
#
#
body of water mostly north of the Arctic Circle
14056000
?
?
?
45389
?
?
?
?
?
some maritime disputes (see littoral states); Svalbard is the focus of a maritime boundary dispute between Norway and Russia
polar climate characterized by persistent cold and relatively narrow annual temperature ranges; winters characterized by continuous darkness, cold and stable weather conditions, and clear skies; summers characterized by continuous daylight, damp and foggy weather, and weak cyclones with rain or snow
central surface covered by a perennial drifting polar icepack that averages about 3 meters in thickness, although pressure ridges may be three times that size; clockwise drift pattern in the Beaufort Gyral Stream, but nearly straight line movement from the New Siberian Islands (Russia) to Denmark Strait (between Greenland and Iceland); the icepack is surrounded by open seas during the summer, but more than doubles in size during the winter and extends to the encircling land masses; the ocean floor is about 50% continental shelf (highest percentage of any ocean) with the remainder a central basin interrupted by three submarine ridges (Alpha Cordillera, Nansen Cordillera, and Lomonsov Ridge)
Fram Basin -4,665 m
sea level 0 m
sand and gravel aggregates, placer deposits, polymetallic nodules, oil and gas fields, fish, marine mammals (seals and whales)
?
?
?
?
?
?
endangered marine species include walruses and whales; fragile ecosystem slow to change and slow to recover from disruptions or damage
ice islands occasionally break away from northern Ellesmere Island; icebergs calved from glaciers in western Greenland and extreme northeastern Canada; permafrost in islands; virtually icelocked from October to June; ships subject to superstructure icing from October to May
NA
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
#
?
#
?
?
#
?
#
?
?
Economic activity is limited to the exploitation of natural resources, including petroleum, natural gas, fish, and seals.
Transportation
#
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
Churchill (Canada), Murmansk (Russia), Prudhoe Bay (US)
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
no submarine cables
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
@Argentina
0
0$Buenos Aires$-3449$-5858$7950000$
1$Cordoba$-3142$-6417$1116000$
1$Rosario$-3300$-6467$1096000$
1$Mendoza$-3283$-6886$728000$
1$La Plata$-3486$-5792$644000$
1$Tucuman$-2678$-6525$626000$
1$Mar Del Plata$-3802$-5758$523000$
1$Santa Fe$-3164$-6072$338000$
3$Aconcagua$-3265$-7000$6959$
#
Argentina was discovered in 1515/1516 by the Spaniard Solis. It became part
of the newly created viceroyalty of Rφo de la Plata in 1776.Independence was
proclaimed in 1816. A confederation of provinces, under the leadership of
Juan Manuel de Rosas, evolved from 1825 to 1850. From 1880 until 1916, the
country was ruled by a coalition of conservative groups that elected the
presidents. The Radical Party took over until 1930, when a military coup
returned the country to conservative rule. The elected dictatorship of Juan
Per∙n lasted from 1945 until 1955 when another period of instability ensued.
Per∙n again became president in 1973, to be succeeded, on his death in July
1974, by his widow, Marφa Estela Martφnez de Per∙n. She was deposed in 1976
by another military coup, resulting in a succession of generals as leaders
of the country. Between 1975 and 1979, it is estimated that some 15,000
people disappeared in the military struggle against "subversion".
Argentina's claim of sovereignty over the Falkland Islands led to their
invasion in 1982. A British expeditionary force removed them from the
islands in June of the same year. As a direct result of this defeat, a more
democratic approach to government was initiated, resulting in elections at
the end of October 1983, when Alfonsφn was chosen as the new president.
#
RA
Southern South America, bordering the South Atlantic Ocean, between Chile and Uruguay
2766890
2736690
9665
Bolivia 832 km, Brazil 1,224 km, Chile 5,150 km, Paraguay 1,880 km, Uruguay 579 km
4989
24
200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
200
?
12
short section of the boundary with Uruguay is in dispute; short section of the boundary with Chile is indefinite; claims British-administered Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas); claims British-administered South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands; territorial claim in Antarctica
mostly temperate; arid in southeast; subantarctic in southwest
rich plains of the Pampas in northern half, flat to rolling plateau of Patagonia in south, rugged Andes along western border
Salinas Chicas -40 m
Cerro Aconcagua 6,962 m
fertile plains of the pampas, lead, zinc, tin, copper, iron ore, manganese, petroleum, uranium
9
4
52
22
13
17600
erosion results from inadequate flood controls and improper land use practices; irrigated soil degradation; desertification; air pollution in Buenos Aires and other major cities; water pollution in urban areas; rivers becoming polluted due to increased pesticide and fertilizer use
Tucuman and Mendoza areas in the Andes subject to earthquakes; pamperos are violent windstorms that can strike the Pampas and northeast; heavy flooding
party to - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Marine Life Conservation
34672997
28
4904380
4707293
63
10851004
10834593
9
1414412
1961315
1.10
19.41
8.62
0.18
1.05
1.04
1
0.72
0.98
28.30
71.66
68.37
75.12
2.62
Argentine(s)
Argentine
white 85%, mestizo, Indian, or other nonwhite groups 15%
#
nominally Roman Catholic 90% (less than 20% practicing), Protestant 2%, Jewish 2%, other 6%
Spanish (official), English, Italian, German, French
96.20
96.20
96.20
Argentine Republic
Argentina
Republica Argentina
Argentina
republic
Buenos Aires
23 provinces (provincias, singular - provincia), and 1 federal district* (distrito federal); Buenos Aires; Catamarca; Chaco; Chubut; Cordoba; Corrientes; Distrito Federal*; Entre Rios; Formosa; Jujuy; La Pampa; La Rioja; Mendoza; Misiones; Neuquen; Rio Negro; Salta; San Juan; San Luis; Santa Cruz; Santa Fe; Santiago del Estero; Tierra del Fuego, Antartida e Islas del Atlantico Sur; Tucuman
note: the US does not recognize any claims to Antarctica or Argentina's claims to the Falkland Islands
Independence: 9 July 1816 (from Spain)
#
?
Revolution Day, 25 May (1810)
1 May 1853; revised August 1994
mixture of US and West European legal systems; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
18 years of age; universal
President Carlos Saul MENEM (since 8 July 1989) was elected for a four-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 14 May 1995 (next to be held May 1999); results - Carlos Saul MENEM was reelected; Vice President Carlos RUCKAUF
?
#
Cabinet was appointed by the president
#
bicameral National Congress (Congreso Nacional)
Senate: elections last held NA May 1995 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (72 total) PJ 38, others 34
Chamber of Deputies: one-half of the members elected every two years to four-year terms; elections last held 14 May 1995; (next to be held NA 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (257 total) PJ 132, UCR 68, Frepaso 26, other 31
#
Supreme Court (Corte Suprema), the nine Supreme Court judges are appointed by the president with approval of the Senate
Justicialist Party (PJ), Carlos Saul MENEM, Peronist umbrella political organization; Radical Civic Union (UCR), Rodolfo TERRAGNO, moderately left-of-center party; Union of the Democratic Center (UCD), conservative party; Dignity and Independence Political Party (MODIN), Aldo RICO, right-wing party; Grand Front (Frente Grande), Carlos ALVAREZ, center-left coalition; Front for a Country in Solidarity (Frepaso, a four party coalition), leader Jose Octavio BORDON; several provincial parties
#
Peronist-dominated labor movement; General Confederation of Labor (CGT), Peronist-leaning umbrella labor organization; Argentine Industrial Union (manufacturers' association); Argentine Rural Society (large landowners' association); business organizations; students; the Roman Catholic Church; the Armed Forces
three equal horizontal bands of light blue (top), white, and light blue; centered in the white band is a radiant yellow sun with a human face known as the Sun of May
Argentina, rich in natural resources, benefits also from a highly literate population, an export-oriented agricultural sector, and a diversified industrial base. Nevertheless, following decades of mismanagement and statist policies, the economy in the late 1980s was plagued with huge external debts and recurring bouts of hyperinflation. Elected in 1989, in the depths of recession, President MENEM has implemented a comprehensive economic restructuring program that shows signs of putting Argentina on a path of stable, sustainable growth. Argentina's currency has traded at par with the US dollar since April 1991, and inflation has fallen to its lowest level in 20 years. Argentines have responded to the relative price stability by repatriating flight capital and investing in domestic industry. After registering impressive 7.4% growth in 1994, based largely on inflows of foreign capital and strong domestic consumption, the Argentine economy stumbled in 1995 as financial pressures fueled by the Mexican peso crisis and political squabbling within the MENEM administration undermined investor confidence and triggered capital outflows. By yearend, GDP had contracted 4.4%, unemployment reached 16%, and Buenos Aires struggled to meet fiscal targets. On the trade front, exports soared during the first half of 1995 - largely because of strong demand in Brazil and high commodity prices - while anemic domestic consumption lowered imports; the resulting yearend trade surplus was about $1.2 billion. However, because exports contribute only 7.5% to GDP, increased foreign sales had little impact on aggregate growth. High unemployment will continue to plague the MENEM administration for the next several years as provincial entities are readied for privatization and more public sector employees are laid off.
#
-4.40
7770
269409
6
31
63
1.70
10900000
agriculture 12%, industry 31%, services 57% (1985 est.)
16
48460
46500
food processing, motor vehicles, consumer durables, textiles, chemicals and petrochemicals, printing, metallurgy, steel
Argentine Army, Navy of the Argentine Republic, Argentine Air Force, National Gendarmerie, Argentine Naval Prefecture (Coast Guard only), National Aeronautical Police Force
#
8707014
7063304
310107
4700000000
1.50
@Armenia
0
0$Erevan$4017$4433$1133$
#
#
ARM
Southwestern Asia, east of Turkey
29800
28400
1254
Azerbaijan-proper 566 km, Azerbaijan-Naxcivan exclave 221 km, Georgia 164 km, Iran 35 km, Turkey 268 km
0
?
?
?
?
?
supports ethnic Armenians in Nagorno-Karabakh in their separatist conflict against the Azerbaijani Government; traditional demands on former Armenian lands in Turkey have subsided
highland continental, hot summers, cold winters
high Armenian Plateau with mountains; little forest land; fast flowing rivers; good soil in Aras River valley
Debed River 400 m
Aragats Lerr 4,095 m
small deposits of gold, copper, molybdenum, zinc, alumina
17
3
20
0
60
3050
soil pollution from toxic chemicals such as DDT; energy blockade, the result of conflict with Azerbaijan, has led to deforestation as citizens scavenge for firewood; pollution of Hrazdan (Razdan) and Aras Rivers; the draining of Sevana Lich, a result of its use as a source for hydropower, threatens drinking water supplies; restart of Metsamor nuclear power plant without adequate (IAEA-recommended) safety and backup systems
occasionally severe earthquakes; droughts
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Nuclear Test Ban, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Desertification
3463574
28
497461
476649
64
1085935
1132282
8
111661
159586
0.02
16.27
7.73
-8.30
1.05
1.04
0.96
0.70
0.96
38.90
69.06
64.44
73.92
2.06
Armenian(s)
Armenian
Armenian 93%, Azeri 3%, Russian 2%, other (mostly Yezidi Kurds) 2% (1989)
note: as of the end of 1993, virtually all Azeris had emigrated from Armenia
note: with the adoption of the new constitution of 5 July 1995, the country was divided into 10 provinces plus the capital: Aragatsotn, Ararat, Armavir, Gegharkunik, Gugark, Kotayk, Shirak, Syunk, Uak, Vayots Dzor, and the capital city of Yerevan
Independence: 28 May 1918 (First Armenian Republic); 23 September 1991 (from Soviet Union)
#
?
Referendum Day, 21 September
adopted by nationwide referendum 5 July 1995
based on civil law system
18 years of age; universal
President Levon Akopovich TER-PETROSSIAN (since NA October 1991) was elected Chairman of the Armenian Supreme Soviet 4 August 1990 before being elected president by popular vote; election last held 16 October 1991 (next to be held NA September 1996); results - Levon Akopovich TER-PETROSSIAN 86%, radical nationalists 7% (est.)
Prime Minister Hrant BAGRATYAN (since 16 February 1993) was appointed by the president; First Deputy Prime Minister Vigen CHITECHYAN (since 16 February 1993)
#
Council of Ministers was appointed by the president
#
unicameral
National Assembly: elections last held 5 July 1995 (next to be held NA 2000); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (190 total) Republican Bloc 159 (ANM 63, DLP-Hanrapetutyun Bloc 6, Republic Party 4, CDU 3, Intellectual Armenia 3, Social Democratic Party 2, independents 78), SWM 8, ACP 7, NDU 5, NSDU 3, DLP 1, ARF 1, other 4, vacant 2
#
Supreme Court
Republic Bloc (Hanrapetoutioun): Armenian National Movement (ANM), Husik LAZARIAN, chairman; Democratic Liberal Party (split away from the opposition party); Republican Party, Ashot NAVARSARDIAN, chairman; Christian Democratic Union (CDU), Azat ARSHAKIAN, chairman; Intellectual Armenia, H. TOKMAJIAN; Social Democratic (Hnchakian) Party, Yeghia NAJARIAN
opposition parties: Shamiram Women's Movement (SWM), Nadezhda SARKISIAN; Armenian Communist Party (ACP), Sergey BADALYAN; National Democratic Union (NDU), Davit VARDANIAN and Vasken MANUKIAN; Union of National Self-Determination (NSDU), Paruir HAIRIKIAN, chairman; Democratic Liberal Party (DLP), Rouben MIRZAKHANIAN, chairman; Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF), Rouben HAKOBIAN, chairman
three equal horizontal bands of red (top), blue, and gold
Under the old Soviet central planning system, Armenia had developed a modern industrial sector, supplying machine building tools, textiles, and other manufactured goods to sister republics in exchange for raw materials and energy. Armenia is a food importer and its mineral deposits (gold, bauxite) are small. The economic decline in recent years (1991-94) has been particularly severe due to the ongoing conflict over the ethnic Armenian-dominated region of Nagorno-Karabakh in Azerbaijan. Azerbaijan and Turkey have blockaded pipeline and railroad traffic to Armenia for its support of the Karabakh Armenians. This has left Armenia with chronic energy shortages because of a lack of capacity and frequent disruptions of natural gas deliveries through unstable Georgia, as well as difficulties in obtaining other types of fuel. Nevertheless, the economy appears to have bottomed out due largely to the government's strong reform program. GDP grew by about 5% in 1995. Inflation fell from an average 40% per month in early 1994 to an average 2.4% per month in 1995. A full economic recovery, however, cannot be expected until the conflict is settled and the blockade lifted.
#
5.20
570
1974
57
36
7
32.20
1012000
industry and construction 46%, agriculture 2%, transportation and communication 7%, other 45% (1992)
8
?
?
much of industry is shut down; metal-cutting machine tools, forging-pressing machines, electric motors, tires, knitted wear, hosiery, shoes, silk fabric, washing machines, chemicals, trucks, watches, instruments, microelectronics
2.40
4.62
5700.00
1620
fruit (especially grapes), vegetables; vineyards near Yerevan are famous for brandy and other liqueurs; minor livestock sector
illicit cultivator of cannabis mostly for domestic consumption; used as a transshipment point for illicit drugs to Western Europe
248
gold and jewelry, aluminum, transport equipment, electrical equipment, scrap metal
Iran, Russia, Turkmenistan, Georgia
661
grain, other foods, fuel, other energy
Iran, Russia, Turkmenistan, Georgia, US, EU
850
ODA, $30 million (1993)
?
1 dram = 100 luma (introduced new currency in November 1993)
401.80
calendar year
825
825 km 1.520-m gauge (1992)
11300
10,500 km (including graveled)
800 km (1990 est.)
?
?
?
900
none
?
?
?
?
11
2
?
1
2
?
?
?
2
3
1
?
650000
NA
international connections to other former Soviet republics are by landline or microwave radio relay and to other countries by satellite and by leased connection through the Moscow international gateway switch; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat
10
3
?
?
1
?
Army, Air and Air Defense Forces, Security Forces (internal and border troops)
#
901974
719212
29988
75000000
?
@Aruba
Netherlands
0$Oranjestad$1250$-6997$20000$
#
#
[NL]
Caribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, north of Venezuela
193
193
?
?
68.50
?
?
?
?
12
none
tropical marine; little seasonal temperature variation
flat with a few hills; scant vegetation
Caribbean Sea 0 m
Mount Jamanota 188 m
negligible; white sandy beaches
0
0
0
0
100
?
NA
lies outside the Caribbean hurricane belt
NA
67794
22
7850
7155
69
22499
24596
9
2353
3341
0.31
14.62
6.24
-5.31
1.05
1.10
0.92
0.70
0.93
8.20
76.68
73
80.55
1.81
Aruban(s)
Aruban
mixed European/Caribbean Indian 80%
#
Roman Catholic 82%, Protestant 8%, Hindu, Muslim, Confucian, Jewish
Dutch (official), Papiamento (a Spanish, Portuguese, Dutch, English dialect), English (widely spoken), Spanish
?
?
?
none
Aruba
?
?
part of the Dutch realm; full autonomy in internal affairs obtained in 1986 upon separation from the Netherlands Antilles
Oranjestad
none (self-governing part of the Netherlands)
Independence: none (part of the Dutch realm; in 1990, Aruba requested and received from the Netherlands cancellation of the agreement to automatically give independence to the island in 1996)
#
?
Flag Day, 18 March
1 January 1986
based on Dutch civil law system, with some English common law influence
18 years of age; universal
Queen BEATRIX Wilhelmina Armgard (of the Netherlands since 30 April 1980), a constitutional monarch, is represented by Governor General Olindo KOOLMAN (since 1 January 1992) who was appointed for a six-year term by the queen
Prime Minister Jan (Henny) H. EMAN (since 29 July 1994) and Deputy Prime Minister Glenbert F. CROES were appointed by the legislature
#
Council of Ministers was appointed by the legislature
#
unicameral
Legislature (Staten): elections last held 29 July 1994 (next to be held by NA July 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (21 total) AVP 10, MEP 9, OLA 2
#
Joint High Court of Justice
Electoral Movement Party (MEP), Nelson ODUBER; Aruban People's Party (AVP), Jan (Henny) H. EMAN; National Democratic Action (ADN), Pedro Charro KELLY; New Patriotic Party (PPN), Eddy WERLEMEN; Aruban Patriotic Party (PPA), Benny NISBET; Aruban Democratic Party (PDA), Leo BERLINSKI; Democratic Action '86 (AD '86), Arturo ODUBER; Aruban Liberal Party (OLA), Glenbert CROES
note: governing coalition includes the AVP and OLA
#
?
#
ECLAC (associate), Interpol, IOC, UNESCO (associate), WCL, WToO (associate)
blue with two narrow horizontal yellow stripes across the lower portion and a red, four-pointed star outlined in white in the upper hoist-side corner
Tourism is the mainstay of the Aruban economy, although offshore banking and oil refining and storage are also important. The rapid growth of the tourism sector over the last decade has resulted in a substantial expansion of other activities. Construction has boomed, with hotel capacity five times the 1985 level. In addition, the reopening of the country's oil refinery in 1993, a major source of employment and foreign exchange earnings, has further spurred growth. Aruba's small labor force and less than 1% unemployment rate have led to a large number of unfilled job vacancies despite sharp rises in wage rates in recent years.
#
6.10
12000
814
?
?
?
6.10
?
most employment is in the tourist industry (1995)
0.50
145
185
tourism, transshipment facilities, oil refining
?
0.09
330
4761
aloes; livestock; fishing
major drug money laundering center and minor transit point for narcotics bound for the US and Europe
1300
mostly refined petroleum products
US 64%, EU
1600.00
food, consumer goods, manufactures, petroleum products, crude oil for refining and reexport
US 8%, EU
669
?
?
1 Aruban florin (Af.) = 100 cents
1.79
calendar year
?
?
NA km
NA km
?
?
?
?
Barcadera, Oranjestad, Sint Nicolaas
?
?
?
?
2
?
1
?
1
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
22922
more than adequate
1 submarine cable to Sint Maarten (Netherlands Antilles); extensive interisland microwave radio relay links
4
4
0
?
1
19000
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
@Ashmore and Cartier Islands
0
#
#
Southeastern Asia, islands in the Indian Ocean, northwest of Australia
5
5
?
?
74.10
12
200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
?
200
3
none
tropical
low with sand and coral
Indian Ocean 0 m
unnamed location 3 m
fish
0
0
0
0
100
0
NA
surrounded by shoals and reefs that can pose maritime hazards
NA
0
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
Territory of Ashmore and Cartier Islands
Ashmore and Cartier Islands
?
?
territory of Australia administered by the Australian Ministry for the Environment, Sport, and Territories
none; administered from Canberra, Australia
none (territory of Australia)
Independence: none (territory of Australia)
#
?
?
?
relevant laws of the Northern Territory of Australia
?
?
?
#
?
#
?
#
?
?
#
?
#
?
the flag of Australia is used
no economic activity
Transportation
#
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
none; offshore anchorage only
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
@Atlantic Ocean
0
#
#
body of water between Africa, Europe, Antarctica, and the Western Hemisphere
82217000
?
?
?
111866
?
?
?
?
?
some maritime disputes (see littoral states)
tropical cyclones (hurricanes) develop off the coast of Africa near Cape Verde and move westward into the Caribbean Sea; hurricanes can occur from May to December, but are most frequent from August to November
surface usually covered with sea ice in Labrador Sea, Denmark Strait, and Baltic Sea from October to June; clockwise warm water gyre (broad, circular system of currents) in the northern Atlantic, counterclockwise warm water gyre in the southern Atlantic; the ocean floor is dominated by the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, a rugged north-south centerline for the entire Atlantic basin
Puerto Rico Trench -8,605 m
sea level 0 m
oil and gas fields, fish, marine mammals (seals and whales), sand and gravel aggregates, placer deposits, polymetallic nodules, precious stones
?
?
?
?
?
?
endangered marine species include the manatee, seals, sea lions, turtles, and whales; drift net fishing is hastening the decline of fish stocks and contributing to international disputes; municipal sludge pollution off eastern US, southern Brazil, and eastern Argentina; oil pollution in Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico, Lake Maracaibo, Mediterranean Sea, and North Sea; industrial waste and municipal sewage pollution in Baltic Sea, North Sea, and Mediterranean Sea
icebergs common in Davis Strait, Denmark Strait, and the northwestern Atlantic Ocean from February to August and have been spotted as far south as Bermuda and the Madeira Islands; icebergs from Antarctica occur in the extreme southern Atlantic Ocean; ships subject to superstructure icing in extreme northern Atlantic from October to May and extreme southern Atlantic from May to October; persistent fog can be a maritime hazard from May to September
NA
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
#
?
#
?
?
#
?
#
?
?
The Atlantic Ocean provides some of the world's most heavily trafficked sea routes, between and within the Eastern and Western Hemispheres. Other economic activity includes the exploitation of natural resources, e.g., fishing, the dredging of aragonite sands (The Bahamas), and production of crude oil and natural gas (Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico, and North Sea).
Transportation
#
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
Alexandria (Egypt), Algiers (Algeria), Antwerp (Belgium), Barcelona (Spain), Buenos Aires (Argentina), Casablanca (Morocco), Colon (Panama), Copenhagen (Denmark), Dakar (Senegal), Gdansk (Poland), Hamburg (Germany), Helsinki (Finland), Las Palmas (Canary Islands, Spain), Le Havre (France), Lisbon (Portugal), London (UK), Marseille (France), Montevideo (Uruguay), Montreal (Canada), Naples (Italy), New Orleans (US), New York (US), Oran (Algeria), Oslo (Norway), Piraeus (Greece), Rio de Janeiro (Brazil), Rotterdam (Netherlands), Saint Petersburg (Russia), Stockholm (Sweden)
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
numerous submarine cables with most between continental Europe and the UK, between North America and the UK, and in the Mediterranean; numerous direct links across Atlantic via satellite networks
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
@Australia
0
0$Canberra$-3525$14914$303000$
1$Perth$-3195$11583$1161000$
1$Brisbane$-2742$15290$1273000$
1$Adela∩de$-3492$13853$1037000$
1$Sydney$-3388$15117$3633000$
1$Newcastle$-3292$15177$425000$
1$Melbourne$-3775$14497$3043000$
1$Hobart$-4283$14735$181200$
1$Darwin$-1247$13083$76000$
#
Recent archaeological discoveries show that two separate migrations of
biologically and culturally different peoples took place into Australia via
New Guinea more than 30,000 years ago. One group reached Tasmania via a
land-bridge, while the second group settled in western Australia. This
latter group formed the ancestors of the Aborigines who remain today as the
remnants of the original inhabitants of Australia. The first European to set
foot on Australia was the Amsterdammer Willem Jansz in 1605, when he landed
on the west coast of the Cape York Peninsula. Tasman circumnavigated
Australia in 1642-43 and, in doing so, discovered Tasmania and New Zealand.
After a final voyage by Tasman in 1644, Australia was considered too
inhospitable to merit the distance involved.
In 1769, James Cook explored the east coast of Australia, thereby
discovering the more attractive area around what is now Sidney. Before
leaving Australia, Cook claimed the east-coast area for Britain and named it
New South Wales. The loss by the British of their American colonies led to
their exploitation of Australia. The first penal settlement dates from 1788.
Free colonists started arriving in 1793 and increased during the following
century. Australia remained in use as a penal colony until 1868. In total,
more than 160,000 convicts were sent there. On 1 January 1901 the
Commonwealth of Australia became official as a state within the British
realm.
#
AUS
Oceania, continent between the Indian Ocean and the South Pacific Ocean
7686850
7617930
?
?
25760
24
200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
200
?
12
territorial claim in Antarctica (Australian Antarctic Territory)
generally arid to semiarid; temperate in south and east; tropical in north
mostly low plateau with deserts; fertile plain in southeast
Lake Eyre -15 m
Mount Kosciusko 2,229 m
bauxite, coal, iron ore, copper, tin, silver, uranium, nickel, tungsten, mineral sands, lead, zinc, diamonds, natural gas, petroleum
6
0
58
14
22
18800
soil erosion from overgrazing, industrial development, urbanization, and poor farming practices; soil salinity rising due to the use of poor quality water; desertification; clearing for agricultural purposes threatens the natural habitat of many unique animal and plant species; the Great Barrier Reef off the northeast coast, the largest coral reef in the world, is threatened by increased shipping and its popularity as a tourist site; limited natural fresh water resources
cyclones along the coast; severe droughts
party to - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Desertification
18260863
21
2009915
1912605
66
6129285
5980315
13
967291
1261452
0.99
13.99
6.88
2.74
1.05
1.05
1.02
0.77
1
5.50
79.39
76.44
82.50
1.84
Australian(s)
Australian
Caucasian 95%, Asian 4%, aboriginal and other 1%
#
Anglican 26.1%, Roman Catholic 26%, other Christian 24.3%
English, native languages
100
100
100
Commonwealth of Australia
Australia
?
?
federal parliamentary state
Canberra
6 states and 2 territories*; Australian Capital Territory*, New South Wales, Northern Territory*, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria, Western Australia
#
Ashmore and Cartier Islands, Christmas Island, Cocos (Keeling) Islands, Coral Sea Islands, Heard Island and McDonald Islands, Norfolk Island
Australia Day, 26 January (1788)
9 July 1900, effective 1 January 1901
based on English common law; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with reservations
18 years of age; universal and compulsory
Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952) is a hereditary monarch, represented by Governor General Sir William DEANE (since 16 February 1996) who was appointed by the queen
Prime Minister John Winston HOWARD (since 11 March 1996) was appointed by the governor general; Deputy Prime Minister Timothy Andrew FISCHER (since 11 March 1996)
#
Cabinet was selected from among the members of Federal Parliament by the governor general on the advice of the prime minister
#
bicameral Federal Parliament
Senate: elections last held 2 March 1996 (next to be held NA 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (76 total) Liberal-National 37, Labor 29, Australian Democrats 8, Greens 1, independent 1
House of Representatives: elections last held 2 March 1996 (next to be held NA 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (148 total) Liberal-National 94, Labor 49, independent 5
#
High Court, the Chief Justice and six other justices are appointed by the governor general
government: coalition of Liberal Party, John Winston HOWARD and National Party, Timothy Andrew FISCHER
opposition: Australian Labor Party, Kim BEAZLEY; Australian Democratic Party, Cheryl KERNOT; Green Party, Bob BROWN
#
Australian Democratic Labor Party (anti-Communist Labor Party splinter group); Peace and Nuclear Disarmament Action (Nuclear Disarmament Party splinter group)
blue with the flag of the UK in the upper hoist-side quadrant and a large seven-pointed star in the lower hoist-side quadrant; the remaining half is a representation of the Southern Cross constellation in white with one small five-pointed star and four, larger, seven-pointed stars
Australia has a prosperous Western-style capitalist economy, with a per capita GDP comparable to levels in highly industrialized West European countries. Rich in natural resources, Australia is a major exporter of agricultural products, minerals, metals, and fossil fuels. Commodities account for more than 80% of the value of total exports, so that, as in 1983-84, a downturn in world commodity prices can have a big impact on the economy. The government is pushing for increased exports of manufactured goods, but competition in international markets continues to be severe. Australia has suffered from the low growth and high unemployment characterizing the OECD countries in the early 1990s. In 1992-93 the economy recovered slowly from the prolonged recession of 1990-91, a major restraining factor being weak world demand for Australia's exports. Growth picked up so strongly in 1994 that the government felt the need for fiscal and monetary tightening by yearend. Australia's GDP grew 6.4% in 1994, largely due to increases in industrial output and business investment. A severe drought in 1994 reduced the value of Australia's net farm production, but rising world commodity prices are likely to boost commodity exports by 15% to $42.4 billion in 1995/96, according to government statistics. Short-term economic problems include a balancing of output growth and inflationary pressures and the stimulation of exports to offset rising imports.
#
3.30
18600
339652
3.10
27.70
69.20
4.75
8630000
finance and services 33.8%, public and community services 22.3%, wholesale and retail trade 20.1%, manufacturing and industry 16.2%, agriculture 6.1% (1987)
8.10
95690
95150.00
mining, industrial and transportation equipment, food processing, chemicals, steel
Tasmania is one of the world's major suppliers of licit opiate products; government maintains strict controls over areas of opium poppy cultivation and output of poppy straw concentrate
51570
coal, gold, meat, wool, alumina, wheat, machinery and transport equipment
Japan 25%, US 11%, South Korea 6%, NZ 5.7%, UK, Taiwan, Singapore, Hong Kong (1992)
57410.00
machinery and transport equipment, computers and office machines, crude oil and petroleum products
US 23%, Japan 18%, UK 6%, Germany 5.7%, NZ 4% (1992)
submarine cables to New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, and Indonesia; satellite earth stations - 10 Intelsat (4 Indian Ocean and 6 Pacific Ocean), 2 Inmarsat (Indian and Pacific Ocean Regions)
258
67
0
?
134
9200000
Australian Army, Royal Australian Navy, Royal Australian Air Force
#
4848777
4192250
127569
7300000000
2
@Austria
0
0$Wien$4820$1636$1533000$
1$Graz$4707$1546$232000$
3$Gross Glockner$4708$1267$3797$
#
Traces of human habitation date back about 24,000 years. The Austrian alps
were a centre of Celtic culture c.800 BC. The area was conquered by the
Romans in the first century BC. It became part of Charlemagne's empire in
788 AD. From 1282 Austria became a major European power under the House of
Hapsburg. Austrian dominance of Germany ended in 1866. In 1867 a dual
monarchy was formed with Hungary. The Austrian empire was destroyed by the
First World War. It bacame a republic in 1919; was occupied by Nazi Germany
from 1938 until 1945, when the republic was re-established. Allied
occupation continued until 1955 when full independence and neutrality were
restored.
#
A
Central Europe, north of Italy
83850
82730
2558
Czech Republic 362 km, Germany 784 km, Hungary 366 km, Italy 430 km, Liechtenstein 37 km, Slovakia 91 km, Slovenia 324 km, Switzerland 164 km
0
?
?
?
?
?
none
temperate; continental, cloudy; cold winters with frequent rain in lowlands and snow in mountains; cool summers with occasional showers
in the west and south mostly mountains (Alps); along the eastern and northern margins mostly flat or gently sloping
Neusiedler See 115 m
Grossglockner 3,797 m
iron ore, oil, timber, magnesite, lead, coal, lignite, copper, hydropower
17
1
24
39
19
40
some forest degradation caused by air and soil pollution; soil pollution results from the use of agricultural chemicals; air pollution results from emissions by coal- and oil-fired power stations and industrial plants and from trucks transiting Austria between northern and southern Europe
NA
party to - Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol
8023244
18
720696
685179
67
2726122
2659162
15
451231
780854
0.41
11.19
10.43
3.34
1.05
1.05
1.02
0.58
0.94
6.20
76.53
73.38
79.84
1.49
Austrian(s)
Austrian
German 99.4%, Croatian 0.3%, Slovene 0.2%, other 0.1%
#
Roman Catholic 85%, Protestant 6%, other 9%
German
99
?
?
Republic of Austria
Austria
Republik Oesterreich
Oesterreich
federal republic
Vienna
9 states (bundeslaender, singular - bundesland); Burgenland, Kaernten, Niederoesterreich, Oberoesterreich, Salzburg, Steiermark, Tirol, Vorarlberg, Wien
Independence: 12 November 1918 (from Austro-Hungarian Empire)
#
?
National Day, 26 October (1955)
1920; revised 1929 (reinstated 1 May 1945)
civil law system with Roman law origin; judicial review of legislative acts by the Constitutional Court; separate administrative and civil/penal supreme courts; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
18 years of age; universal; compulsory for presidential elections
President Thomas KLESTIL (since 8 July 1992) was elected for a six-year term by popular vote; election last held 24 May 1992 (next to be held 1998); results of second ballot - Thomas KLESTIL 57%, Rudolf STREICHER 43%
Chancellor Franz VRANITZKY (since 16 June 1986) was chosen by the president from the majority party in the National Council; Vice Chancellor Wolfgang SCHUESSEL (since 22 April 1995) was chosen by the president on the advice of the chancellor
#
Council of Ministers was chosen by the president on the advice of the chancellor
#
bicameral Federal Assembly (Bundesversammlung)
Federal Council (Bundesrat): consists of 63 members representing each of the provinces on the basis of population, but with each province having at least three representatives
National Council (Nationalrat): elections last held 17 December 1995 (next to be held Fall 1999); results - SPOE 38.3%, OEVP 28.3%, FPOE 22.1%, Greens 4.6%, LF 5.3%, other 1.4%; seats - (183 total) SPOE 71, OEVP 53, FPOE 40, Greens 9, LF 10
#
Supreme Judicial Court (Oberster Gerichtshof) for civil and criminal cases; Administrative Court (Verwaltungsgerichtshof) for bureaucratic cases; Constitutional Court (Verfassungsgerichtshof) for constitutional cases
Social Democratic Party of Austria (SPOE), Franz VRANITZKY, chairman; Austrian People's Party (OEVP), Wolfgang SCHUESSEL, chairman; Freedom Movement (F, formerly the Freedom Party of Austria or FPOE), Joerg HAIDER, chairman; Communist Party (KPOE), Walter SILBERMAYER, chairman; The Greens, Madeleine PETROVIC; Liberal Forum (LF), Heide SCHMIDT
#
Federal Chamber of Commerce and Industry; Austrian Trade Union Federation (primarily Socialist); three composite leagues of the Austrian People's Party (OEVP) representing business, labor, and farmers; OEVP-oriented League of Austrian Industrialists; Roman Catholic Church, including its chief lay organization, Catholic Action
three equal horizontal bands of red (top), white, and red
Austria has a well-developed market economy with a sizable - but falling - proportion of nationalized industry, an extensive social system, and a high standard of living. Austria's economy is closely integrated with Germany and other EU members - Austria joined the EU on 1 January 1995. Since the early 1980s, the Austrian economy has experienced stable growth. Following a mild recession in 1993, Austria's economy - driven by strong exports, investment, and private consumption - expanded 2.7% in 1994 and about 2.4% in 1995. The slowdown in 1995 was largely due to an appreciation of the Austrian schilling and its negative effect on exports and tourism. EU membership has had a positive impact on foreign investment and has helped to lower inflation. Despite Austria's generally favorable economic prospects, the government faces a number of economic challenges, especially budget consolidation. Smaller than expected revenues and rising welfare payments caused the budget deficit to climb to 7.1% of GDP in 1995. Austria also faces a growing unemployment problem. Although low by European standards, Austria's unemployment rate has risen gradually during the 1990s as companies restructured to meet competition from the EU single market and Eastern Europe.
#
2.40
26730
214461
2
34
64
2.30
3470000
services 56.4%, industry and crafts 35.4%, agriculture and forestry 8.1%
4.60
65000.00
75800
food, iron and steel, machines, textiles, chemicals, electrical, paper and pulp, tourism, mining, motor vehicles
satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean) and 2 Eutelsat
6
21
0
?
47
2418584
Army (includes Flying Division)
#
2084827
1741068
45628
2100000000
1
@Azerbaijan
0
0$Baku$4043$4975$1087000$
#
Azerbaijan continues to be plagued by an unresolved
seven-year-old conflict with Armenian separatists over its
Nagorno-Karabakh region. The Karabakh Armenians have declared
independence and seized almost 20% of the country's territory,
creating almost 1 million Azeri displaced persons in the process. Both
sides have generally observed a Russian-mediated cease-fire in place
since May 1994, and support the OSCE-mediated peace process, now
entering its fourth year. Nevertheless, Baku and Xankandi
(Stepanakert) remain far apart on most substantive issues from the
placement and composition of a peacekeeping force to the enclave's
ultimate political status, and prospects for a negotiated settlement
remain dim.
#
ASE
Southwestern Asia, bordering the Caspian Sea, between Iran and Russia
86600
86100
2013
Armenia (with Azerbaijan-proper) 566 km, Armenia (with Azerbaijan-Naxcivan exclave) 221 km, Georgia 322 km, Iran (with Azerbaijan-proper) 432 km, Iran (with Azerbaijan-Naxcivan exclave) 179 km, Russia 284 km, Turkey 9 km
0
?
?
?
?
?
violent and longstanding dispute with ethnic Armenians of Nagorno-Karabakh over its status; Caspian Sea boundaries are not yet determined
dry, semiarid steppe
large, flat Kur-Araz Lowland (much of it below sea level) with Great Caucasus Mountains to the north, Qarabag (Karabakh) Upland in west; Baku lies on Abseron (Apsheron) Peninsula that juts into Caspian Sea
Caspian Sea -28 m
Bazarduzu Dagi 4,485 m
petroleum, natural gas, iron ore, nonferrous metals, alumina
18
4
25
0
53
14010
local scientists consider the Abseron (Apsheron) Peninsula (including Baku and Sumqayit) and the Caspian Sea to be the ecologically most devastated area in the world because of severe air, water, and soil pollution; soil pollution results from the use of DDT as a pesticide and also from toxic defoliants used in the production of cotton
droughts; some lowland areas threatened by rising levels of the Caspian Sea
party to - Climate Change; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity
7676953
32
1270812
1215781
61
2293688
2423222
7
179048
294402
0.78
22.28
8.69
-5.80
1.05
1.04
0.95
0.61
0.95
74.50
64.84
60.13
69.78
2.64
Azerbaijani(s)
Azerbaijani
Azeri 90%, Dagestani Peoples 3.2%, Russian 2.5%, Armenian 2.3%, other 2% (1995 est.)
note: almost all Armenians live in the separatist Nagorno-Karabakh region
#
Muslim 93.4%, Russian Orthodox 2.5%, Armenian Orthodox 2.3%, other 1.8% (1995 est.)
Azeri 89%, Russian 3%, Armenian 2%, other 6% (1995 est.)
97
99
96
Azerbaijani Republic
Azerbaijan
Azarbaycan Respublikasi
none
republic
Baku (Baki)
59 rayons (rayonlar; rayon - singular), 11 cities* (saharlar; sahar - singular), 1 autonomous republic** (muxtar respublika); Abscron Rayonu, Agcabadi Rayonu, Agdam Rayonu, Agdas Rayonu, Agstafa Rayonu, Agsu Rayonu, AliBayramli Sahari*, Astara Rayonu, Baki Sahari*, Balakan Rayonu, Barda Rayonu, Beylaqan Rayonu, Bilasuvar Rayonu, Cabrayil Rayonu, Calilabad Rayonu, Daskasan Rayonu, Davaci Rayonu, Fuzuli Rayonu, Gadabay Rayonu, Ganca Sahari*, Goranboy Rayonu, Goycay Rayonu, Haciqabul Rayonu, Imisli Rayonu, Ismayilli Rayonu, Kalbacar Rayonu, Kurdamir Rayonu, Lacin Rayonu, Lankaran Rayonu, Lankaran Sahari*, Lerik Rayonu, Masalli Rayonu, Mingacevir Sahari*, Naftalan Sahari*, Naxcivan Muxtar Respublikasi**, Neftcala Rayonu, Oguz Rayonu, Qabala Rayonu, Qax Rayonu, Qazax Rayonu, Qobustan Rayonu, Quba Rayonu, Qubadli Rayonu, Qusar Rayonu, Saatli Rayonu, Sabirabad Rayonu, Saki Rayonu, Saki Sahari*, Salyan Rayonu, Samaxi Rayonu, Samkir Rayonu, Samux Rayonu, Siyazan Rayonu, Sumqayit Sahari*, Susa Rayonu, Susa Sahari*, Tartar Rayonu, Tovuz Rayonu, Ucar Rayonu, Xacmaz Rayonu, Xankandi Sahari*, Xanlar Rayonu, Xizi Rayonu, Xocali Rayonu, Xocavand Rayonu, Yardimb Rayonu, Yevlax Rayonu, Yevlax Sahari*, Zangilan Rayonu, Zaqatala Rayonu, Zardab Rayonu
Independence: 30 August 1991 (from Soviet Union)
#
?
Independence Day, 28 May
adopted 12 November 1995
based on civil law system
18 years of age; universal
President Heydar ALIYEV (since 18 June 1993) was elected by popular vote; election last held 3 October 1993 (next to be held 1997 or 1998); results - Heydar ALIYEV won 97% of vote
Prime Minister Fuad QULIYEV (since 9 October 1994), First Deputy Prime Ministers Abbas ABBASOV (since NA), Samed SADYKOV (since NA), Vahid AKHMEDOV (since NA), Elchin EFENDIYEV (since NA) were appointed by the president and confirmed by the Milli Mejlis
#
Council of Ministers was appointed by the president and confirmed by the Mejlis
#
unicameral
National Assembly (Milli Mejlis): elections last held 12 and 26 November 1995 (next to be held NA); percent of vote by party NA; seats - (125 total) number of seats by party NA
#
Supreme Court
Azerbaijan Popular Front (APF), Ebulfez ELCIBEY, chairman; Musavat Party, Isa GAMBAR, chairman; National Independence Party, Etibar MAMEDOV, chairman; Social Democratic Party (SDP), Araz ALIZADE, chairman; Communist Party, Ramiz AKHMEDOV, chairman; People's Freedom Party, Yunus OGUZ, chairman; Independent Social Democratic Party, Arif YUNUSOV and Leila YUNOSOVA, cochairmen; New Azerbaijan Party, Heydar ALIYEV, chairman; Boz Gurd Party, Iskander HAMIDOV, chairman; Azerbaijan Democratic Independence Party, Qabil HUSEYNLI, chairman; Islamic Party of Azerbaijan, Ali Akram, chairman; Ana Veten Party, Fazail AGAMALIYEV; Azerbaijan Democratic Party, Sardar Jalaloglu MAMEDOV; Azerbaijan Democratic Party of Proprietors (DPOP), Makhmud MAMEDOV; Azerbaijan Patriotic Solidarity Party, Sabir RUSTAMHANLI; Azerbaijan Republic Reform Party, Fuad ASADOV; Communist Party of Azerbaijan (unregistered), Sayad SAYADOV; Equality of the Peoples Party, Faukhraddin AYDAYEV; Independent Azerbaijan Party, Nizami SULEYMANOV; Labor Party of Azerbaijan, Sabutai HAJIYEV; Liberal-Democratic Party of Azerbaijan, Lyudmila NIKOLAYEVNA; National Enlightenment Party, Hajy Osman EFENDIYEV; National Liberation Party, Panak SHAKHSEVEV; Peasant Party, Firuz MUSTAFAYEV; Radical Party of Azerbaijan, Malik SHARIFOV; United Azerbaijan Party, Kerrar ABILOV; Vetan Adzhagy Party, Zakir TAGIYEV
#
self-proclaimed Armenian Nagorno-Karabakh Republic; Talysh independence movement
three equal horizontal bands of blue (top), red, and green; a crescent and eight-pointed star in white are centered in red band
Azerbaijan is less developed industrially than either Armenia or Georgia, the other Transcaucasian states. It resembles the Central Asian states in its majority nominally Muslim population, high structural unemployment, and low standard of living. The economy's most prominent products are oil, cotton, and gas. Production from the Caspian oil and gas field has been in decline for several years, but the November 1994 ratification of the $7.5 billion oil deal with a consortium of Western companies should generate the funds needed to spur future industrial development. Azerbaijan shares all the formidable problems of the ex-Soviet republics in making the transition from a command to a market economy, but its considerable energy resources brighten its long-term prospects. Baku has only recently begun making progress on economic reform, and old economic ties and structures have yet to be replaced. Whereas the economies of most of the former Soviet republics had begun to bottom out in 1995, Azerbaijan's economy continued to plummet because of its late start on economic reform.
#
-17
480
3685
?
?
?
85
2789000
agriculture and forestry 32%, industry and construction 26%, other 42% (1990)
2.30
465
488
petroleum and natural gas, petroleum products, oilfield equipment; steel, iron ore, cement; chemicals and petrochemicals; textiles
illicit cultivator of cannabis and opium poppy, mostly for CIS consumption; limited government eradication program; transshipment point for illicit drugs to Western Europe
549.90
oil and gas, chemicals, oilfield equipment, textiles, cotton
mostly CIS and European countries
681.50
machinery and parts, consumer durables, foodstuffs, textiles
European countries
100
ODA, $14 million (1993)
?
1 manat = 100 gopik
4375
calendar year
2125
2,125 km 1.520-m gauge (1,278 km electrified) (1993)
36700
31,800 km (includes graveled)
4,900 km (1990 est.)
?
1130
630
1240
Baku (Baki)
?
?
?
?
69
2
6
17
3
1
?
?
?
7
33
?
710000
telephone service is of poor quality and inadequate; a joint venture to establish a cellular telephone system in the Baku area was supposed to become operational in 1994
cable and microwave radio relay connections to former Soviet republics; connection through Moscow international gateway switch to other countries; satellite earth stations - 1 Intelsat and 1 Intersputnik (Intelsat provides service to Turkey and through Turkey to 200 more countries; Intersputnik provides direct service to New York)
?
?
?
?
2
?
Army, Navy, Air Force, Maritime Border Guard
#
1952390
1574813
68006
?
?
@Bahamas
0
0$Nassau$2508$-7733$171000
#
Discovered by Columbus in 1492, Bahamas became a British colony in the
17th century. Politically, Bahamians have had considerable control over
their affairs since Captain Rogers gathered the islands' first assembly in
1729. Constitutional advances in 1964 and 1969 brought the country to the
verge of complete self-government. In 1969, the name of Commonwealth of the
Bahama Islands was adopted, and on July 10, 1973, on independence, the
official form became the Commonwealth of the Bahamas.
#
BS
Caribbean, chain of islands in the North Atlantic Ocean, southeast of Florida
13940
10070
?
?
3542
?
200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
?
200
3
none
tropical marine; moderated by warm waters of Gulf Stream
long, flat coral formations with some low rounded hills
Atlantic Ocean 0 m
Mount Alvernia 63 m
salt, aragonite, timber
1
0
0
32
67
?
coral reef decay
hurricanes and other tropical storms that cause extensive flood and wind damage
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Whaling
259367
28
36331
35771
67
84107
89193
5
5449
8516
1.05
18.73
5.74
-2.54
1.02
1.02
0.94
0.64
0.94
23.30
72.53
67.98
77.16
1.97
Bahamian(s)
Bahamian
black 85%, white 15%
#
Baptist 32%, Anglican 20%, Roman Catholic 19%, Methodist 6%, Church of God 6%, other Protestant 12%, none or unknown 3%, other 2%
English, Creole (among Haitian immigrants)
98.20
98.50
98
Commonwealth of The Bahamas
The Bahamas
?
?
commonwealth
Nassau
21 districts; Acklins and Crooked Islands, Bimini, Cat Island, Exuma, Freeport, Fresh Creek, Governor's Harbour, Green Turtle Cay, Harbour Island, High Rock, Inagua, Kemps Bay, Long Island, Marsh Harbour, Mayaguana, New Providence, Nicholls Town and Berry Islands, Ragged Island, Rock Sound, Sandy Point, San Salvador and Rum Cay
Independence: 10 July 1973 (from UK)
#
?
National Day, 10 July (1973)
10 July 1973
based on English common law
18 years of age; universal
Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952) is a hereditary monarch, represented by Governor General Sir Orville TURNQUEST (since 2 January 1995) who was appointed by the queen
Prime Minister Hubert Alexander INGRAHAM (since 19 August 1992) and Deputy Prime Minister Frank WATSON (since NA) were appointed by the governor general
#
Cabinet was appointed by the governor general on the prime minister's recommendation
#
bicameral Parliament
Senate: a 16-member body appointed by the governor general
House of Assembly: elections last held 19 August 1992 (next to be held by August 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (49 total) FNM 32, PLP 17
#
Supreme Court
Progressive Liberal Party (PLP), Sir Lynden O. PINDLING; Free National Movement (FNM), Hubert Alexander INGRAHAM
three equal horizontal bands of aquamarine (top), gold, and aquamarine with a black equilateral triangle based on the hoist side
The Bahamas is a stable, developing nation with an economy heavily dependent on tourism and offshore banking. Tourism alone accounts for more than 50% of GDP and directly or indirectly employs 40% of the archipelago's labor force. A slowdown in the expansion of the tourism sector - especially stopover travel from Europe - led to a reduction in the country's GDP growth rate in 1995, down to an estimated 2% from 3.5% in 1994. The construction sector benefited from hotel rehabilitation and the government's ongoing housing development program. Earnings from exports of vegetable and citrus production have been decreasing since 1993 but are expected to increase in 1996 due to storm damage to crops in Florida. The overall growth prospects through 1996 will depend heavily on the fortunes of the tourism sector and continued income growth in the US, which accounts for the majority of tourist visits.
#
2
11820
3066
3
35
62
1.50
136900
government 30%, tourism 40%, business services 10%, agriculture 5% (1995 est.)
15
665
725
tourism, banking, cement, oil refining and transshipment, salt production, rum, aragonite, pharmaceuticals, spiral-welded steel pipe
?
0.42
929
3200
citrus, vegetables; poultry
transshipment point for cocaine and marijuana bound for US and Europe; also a money-laundering center
tropospheric scatter and submarine cable to Florida; 3 coaxial submarine cables; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean)
3
2
0
200000
1
60000
Royal Bahamas Defense Force (Coast Guard only), Royal Bahamas Police Force
#
?
?
?
20000000
3.80
@Bahrain
0
0$Manama$2617$5050$138000$
#
An independent Arab state, Bahrain had a special treaty with the United
Kingdom, which was responsible for the conduct of its foreign affairs and
defense, from 1861 until full independence in 1971. A new constitution came
into effect on 6 December 1973. The National Congress foreseen in this
constitution was dissolved in 1975, when all political parties were also
banned. Bahrain is now a monarchy (emirate) with a Cabinet nominated by the
Emir himself. There are 10 administrative units and sub-units. Bahrain has
been inhabited since prehistoric times and Bahrain Island is possibly the
site of the legendary Dilmun, an ancient centre of trade described in
writings dating from 2000BC. The archipelago was also mentioned by Persian,
Greek and Roman geographers and historians. The area was conquered in the
7th century by the Muslims and has remained Arab and Muslim since then.,
though it was ruled by the Portuguese from 1521 to 1602 and by the Persians
from 1602 to 1783. Since 1783 it has been ruled by sheikhs of the Al
Khalifah family.
#
BRN
Middle East, archipelago in the Persian Gulf, east of Saudi Arabia
620
620
?
?
161
24
extending to boundaries to be determined
?
?
12
territorial dispute with Qatar over the Hawar Islands; maritime boundary with Qatar
arid; mild, pleasant winters; very hot, humid summers
mostly low desert plain rising gently to low central escarpment
Persian Gulf 0 m
Jabal ad Dukhan 122 m
oil, associated and nonassociated natural gas, fish
2
2
6
0
90
10
desertification resulting from the degradation of limited arable land, periods of drought, and dust storms; coastal degradation (damage to coastlines, coral reefs, and sea vegetation) resulting from oil spills and other discharges from large tankers, oil refineries, and distribution stations; no natural fresh water resources so that groundwater and sea water are the only sources for all water needs
periodic droughts; dust storms
party to - Climate Change, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity
590042
31
92455
89554
67
236048
156556
2
7956
7473
2.27
23.58
3.29
2.42
1.03
1.03
1.51
1.06
1.33
17.10
74.27
71.78
76.83
3.08
Bahraini(s)
Bahraini
Bahraini 63%, Asian 13%, other Arab 10%, Iranian 8%, other 6%
#
Shi'a Muslim 75%, Sunni Muslim 25%
Arabic, English, Farsi, Urdu
85.20
89.10
79.40
State of Bahrain
Bahrain
Dawlat al Bahrayn
Al Bahrayn
traditional monarchy
Manama
12 municipalites (manatiq, singular - mintaqah); Al Hadd, Al Manamah, Al Mintaqah al Gharbiyah, Al Mintaqah al Wusta, Al Mintaqah ash Shamaliyah, Al Muharraq, Ar Rifa'wa al Mintaqah al Janubiyah, Jidd Hafs, Madinat Hamad, Madinat 'Isa, Juzur Hawar, Sitrah; note - all municipalities administered from Manama
Independence: 15 August 1971 (from UK)
#
?
Independence Day, 16 December (1971)
26 May 1973, effective 6 December 1973
based on Islamic law and English common law
none
Amir ISA bin Salman Al Khalifa (since 2 November 1961) is a traditional Arab monarch; Heir Apparent HAMAD bin Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa (son of the Amir, born 28 January 1949)
Prime Minister KHALIFA bin Salman Al Khalifa (since 19 January 1970) was appointed by the amir
#
Cabinet was appointed by the amir
#
unicameral National Assembly was dissolved 26 August 1975 and legislative powers were assumed by the Cabinet; appointed Advisory Council established 16 December 1992
#
High Civil Appeals Court
political parties prohibited
#
several small, clandestine leftist and Islamic fundamentalist groups are active; following the arrest of a popular Shi'a cleric, Shi'a activists fomented unrest sporadically from late 1994 to September 1995, demanding the return of an elected National Assembly and an end to unemployment
red with a white serrated band (eight white points) on the hoist side
In Bahrain, petroleum production and processing account for about 80% of export receipts, 60% of government revenues, and 30% of GDP. Economic conditions have fluctuated with the changing fortunes of oil since 1985, for example, during and following the Gulf crisis of 1990-91. With its highly developed communication and transport facilities, Bahrain is home to numerous multinational firms with business in the Gulf. A large share of exports consists of petroleum products made from imported crude. Unemployment, especially among the young, and the depletion of both oil and underground water resources are major long-term economic problems.
#
-2
7830
4620
?
?
?
3
140000
industry and commerce 85%, agriculture 5%, services 5%, government 3% (1982)
25
1380
1700
petroleum processing and refining, aluminum smelting, offshore banking, ship repairing
13
1.05
3300.00
5453
fruit, vegetables; poultry, dairy products; shrimp, fish
?
3200.00
petroleum and petroleum products 80%, aluminum 7%
India 20%, Japan 14%, Saudi Arabia 7%, US 6%, UAE 5% (1994)
3290
nonoil 59%, crude oil 41%
Saudi Arabia 37%, US 12%, UK 6%, Japan 5%, Germany 4% (1994)
tropospheric scatter to Qatar and UAE; microwave radio relay to Saudi Arabia; submarine cable to Qatar, UAE, and Saudi Arabia; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean) and 1 Arabsat
2
3
0
320000
2
270000
Ground Force, Navy, Air Force, Air Defense, Coast Guard, Police Force
#
213792
118702
?
247000000
5.50
@Baker Island
United States
#
#
Oceania, atoll in the North Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from Hawaii to Australia
1.40
1.40
?
?
4.80
?
?
200
?
12
none
equatorial; scant rainfall, constant wind, burning sun
low, nearly level coral island surrounded by a narrow fringing reef
Pacific Ocean 0 m
unnamed location 8 m
guano (deposits worked until 1891)
0
0
0
0
100
0
no natural fresh water resources
the narrow fringing reef surrounding the island can be a maritime hazard
NA
0
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
none
Baker Island
?
?
unincorporated territory of the US administered by the Fish and Wildlife Service of the US Department of the Interior as part of the National Wildlife Refuge system
none; administered from Washington, DC
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
#
?
#
?
?
#
?
#
?
the flag of the US is used
no economic activity
Transportation
#
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
none; offshore anchorage only; note - there is one boat landing area along the middle of the west coast
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
@Bangladesh
0
0$Dhaka$2372$9043$6105000$
1$Chittagong$2232$9192$2040000$
1$Khulna$2250$8957$877000$
1$Rajshah$2436$8865$517000$
#
Formerly East Pakistan, in the delta of the Ganges and Brahmaputra rivers.
It was founded in December 1971 following the Bengali revolt, with Indian
armed assistance, against Pakistan. This revolt began when talks between
leaders of West and East Pakistan reached a stalemate on 25 March 1971. East
Pakistan declared itself as independent Bangladesh the following day.
#
BD
Southern Asia, bordering the Bay of Bengal, between Burma and India
144000
133910
4246
Burma 193 km, India 4,053 km
580
18
up to the outer limits of the continental margin
200
?
12
a portion of the boundary with India in dispute; water-sharing problems with upstream riparian India over the Ganges
tropical; cool, dry winter (October to March); hot, humid summer (March to June); cool, rainy monsoon (June to October)
mostly flat alluvial plain; hilly in southeast
Indian Ocean 0 m
Reng Tlang 957 m
natural gas, arable land, timber
67
2
4
16
11
27380
many people are landless and forced to live on and cultivate flood-prone land; limited access to potable water; water-borne diseases prevalent; water pollution especially of fishing areas results from the use of commercial pesticides; intermittent water shortages because of falling water tables in the northern and central parts of the country; soil degradation; deforestation; severe overpopulation
droughts, cyclones; much of the country routinely flooded during the summer monsoon season
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Law of the Sea
123062800
39
24434219
23436359
58
36607942
34603628
3
2175017
1805635
1.85
30.50
11.21
-0.78
1.05
1.04
1.06
1.20
1.06
102.30
55.86
56.02
55.69
3.57
Bangladeshi(s)
Bangladesh
Bengali 98%, Biharis 250,000, tribals less than 1 million
#
Muslim 83%, Hindu 16%, Buddhist, Christian, other
Bangla (official), English
38.10
49.40
26.10
People's Republic of Bangladesh
Bangladesh
?
?
republic
Dhaka
4 divisions; Chittagong, Dhaka, Khulna, Rajshahi
note: there may be two new divisions named Barisal and Sylhet
Independence: 16 December 1971 (from Pakistan)
#
?
Independence Day, 26 March (1971)
4 November 1972, effective 16 December 1972, suspended following coup of 24 March 1982, restored 10 November 1986, amended many times
based on English common law
18 years of age; universal
President Abdur Rahman BISWAS (since 8 October 1991) was elected for a five-year term by National Parliament; election last held 8 October 1991 (next to be held by NA October 1996); results - Abdur Rahman BISWAS received 52.1% of parliamentary vote
Caretaker Prime Minister Muhammad Habibur RAHMAN (since 31 March 1996) was appointed by the president (see note under Legislative branch entry)
#
Advisory Council was appointed by the president on 3 April 1996
#
unicameral
National Parliament (Jatiya Sangsad): elections last held 15 February 1996 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (330 total, 300 elected and 30 seats reserved for women) seats by party NA; note - the election was held despite the fact that it was boycotted by the major opposition parties; Prime Minister Khaleda ZIAur RAHMAN's party won a landslide victory, but, under continuing pressure from the opposition, who called for an annulment of the results, National Parliament passed a bill that established a caretaker government to oversee new elections on a date yet to be determined; President BISWAS then dissolved Parliament and named a caretaker prime minister to replace Prime Minister ZIAur RAHMAN
#
Supreme Court, the Chief Justices and other judges are appointed by the president
Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), Khaleda ZIAur RAHMAN; Awami League (AL), Sheikh Hasina WAJED; Jatiyo Party (JP), Hussain Mohammad ERSHAD (in jail); Jamaat-E-Islami (JI), Motiur Rahman NIZAMI; Bangladesh Communist Party (BCP), Saifuddin Ahmed MANIK; National Awami Party (Muzaffar); Workers Party, Rashid Khan MENON; Jatiyo Samajtantik Dal (JSD), Serajul ALAM KHAN; Ganotantri Party, leader NA; Islami Oikya Jote, leader NA; National Democratic Party (NDP), leader NA; Muslim League, Khan A. SABUR; Democratic League, Khondakar MUSHTAQUE Ahmed; United People's Party, Kazi ZAFAR Ahmed
green with a large red disk slightly to the hoist side of center; green is the traditional color of Islam
Despite sustained domestic and international efforts to improve economic and demographic prospects, Bangladesh remains one of the world's poorest, most densely populated, and least developed nations. Annual GDP growth has averaged over 4% in recent years from a low base. Its economy is overwhelmingly agricultural, with the cultivation of rice the single most important activity in the economy. Major impediments to growth include frequent cyclones and floods, the inefficiency of state-owned enterprises, a rapidly growing labor force that cannot be absorbed by agriculture, delays in exploiting energy resources (natural gas), inadequate power supplies, and, most recently, political disturbances. In 1995, progress on Bangladesh's development agenda has been slowed by frequent political unrest before and after national elections in early 1996. Opposition parties have challenged the government's authority by resigning from Parliament and sponsoring numerous countrywide strikes that have crippled transport, hindered business activity, and threatened to slow economic growth in 1996.
#
4.60
240
29535
?
?
?
4.50
50100000
agriculture 65%, services 21%, industry and mining 14% (1989)
satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Indian Ocean); international radiotelephone communications and landline service to neighboring countries
9
6
0
?
11
350000
Army, Navy, Air Force, paramilitary forces (includes Bangladesh Rifles, Bangladesh Ansars, Armed Police Reserve, Village Defense Parties, National Cadet Corps)
#
31795848
18814818
?
481000000
1.70
@Barbados
0
$0$Bridgetown$1310$-5958$92401$
#
Remains indicate that there was once a considerable population of Arawak
indians on the island of Barbados. In 1518 the Spanish landed to seek slaves
for their colony of Hispanola and by the mid-16th century no more indians
remained. English colonists landed in the early 17th century and started
tobacco and sugar-plantations, bringing in slaves from West Africa for
labour. Slavery was abolished in 1834. Barbados became an independent state
within the British Commonwealth on 30 November 1963, with the British
monarch as chief of state, represented by a governor-general.
#
BDS
Caribbean, island between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, northeast of Venezuela
430
430
?
?
97
?
?
200
?
12
none
tropical; rainy season (June to October)
relatively flat; rises gently to central highland region
Atlantic Ocean 0 m
Mount Hillaby 336 m
petroleum, fish, natural gas
77
0
9
0
14
?
pollution of coastal waters from waste disposal by ships; soil erosion; illegal solid waste disposal threatens contamination of aquifers
hurricanes (especially June to October); periodic landslides
party to - Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Hazardous Wastes
257030
24
31263
29822
66
83565
86697
10
9929
15754
0.26
15.29
8.21
-4.49
1.08
1.05
0.96
0.63
0.94
18.70
74.35
71.65
77.25
1.78
Barbadian(s)
Barbadian
African 80%, European 4%, other 16%
#
Protestant 67% (Anglican 40%, Pentecostal 8%, Methodist 7%, other 12%), Roman Catholic 4%, none 17%, unknown 3%, other 9% (1980)
English
97.40
98
96.80
none
Barbados
?
?
parliamentary democracy
Bridgetown
11 parishes; Christ Church, Saint Andrew, Saint George, Saint James, Saint John, Saint Joseph, Saint Lucy, Saint Michael, Saint Peter, Saint Philip, Saint Thomas
note: the city of Bridgetown may be given parish status
Independence: 30 November 1966 (from UK)
#
?
Independence Day, 30 November (1966)
30 November 1966
English common law; no judicial review of legislative acts
18 years of age; universal
Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952) is a hereditary monarch, represented by Acting Governor General Denys WILLIAMS (since 21 December 1995) who was appointed by the queen
Prime Minister Owen Seymour ARTHUR (since 6 September 1994) was appointed by the governor general; Deputy Prime Minister Billie MILLER (since 6 September 1994)
#
Cabinet was appointed by the governor general on advice of the prime minister
#
bicameral Parliament
Senate: consists of a 21-member body appointed by the governor general
House of Assembly: election last held 6 September 1994 (next to be held by January 1999); results - percentage vote by party NA; seats - (28 total) BLP 19, DLP 8,NDP 1
#
Supreme Court of Judicature, judges are appointed by the Service Commissions for the Judicial and Legal Service
Democratic Labor Party (DLP), David THOMPSON; Barbados Labor Party (BLP), Owen ARTHUR; National Democratic Party (NDP), Richard HAYNES
#
Barbados Workers Union, Leroy TROTMAN; People's Progressive Movement, Eric SEALY; Workers' Party of Barbados, Dr. George BELLE; Clement Payne Labor Union, David COMMISSIONG
three equal vertical bands of blue (hoist side), gold, and blue with the head of a black trident centered on the gold band; the trident head represents independence and a break with the past (the colonial coat of arms contained a complete trident)
Historically, the Barbadian economy has been dependent on sugarcane cultivation and related activities, but in recent years the production has diversified into manufacturing and tourism. Sluggish performances in the sugar and tourism sectors - which declined by 25% and 8% respectively - tempered economic expansion in 1995; output increased by 2% for the year, down from nearly 4% in 1994. Improved weather conditions in 1995 are expected to boost agriculture output in 1996. Since taking office in 1994, Prime Minister ARTHUR has aggressively moved to promote foreign direct investment as part of a policy designed to reduce nagging unemployment. The government has also been active in promoting regional integration initiatives.
#
2
6710
1725
6.40
39.30
54.30
1.70
126000
services and government 41%, commerce 15%, manufacturing and construction 18%, transportation, storage, communications, and financial institutions 8%, agriculture 6%, utilities 2% (1992 est.)
19.90
550
710
tourism, sugar, light manufacturing, component assembly for export
5
0.15
510.00
1841
sugarcane, vegetables, cotton
one of many Caribbean transshipment points for narcotics bound for the US and Europe
158.60
sugar and molasses, rum, other foods and beverages, chemicals, electrical components, clothing
US 13%, UK 10%, Trinidad and Tobago 9%, Windward Islands 8%
693
consumer goods, machinery, foodstuffs, construction materials, chemicals, fuel, electrical components
satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean); tropospheric scatter to Trinidad and Saint Lucia
3
2
0
?
2
69350
Royal Barbados Defense Force (includes Ground Forces and Coast Guard), Royal Barbados Police Force
#
71667
49726
?
?
?
@Bassas da India
0
#
#
Southern Africa, islands in the southern Mozambique Channel, about one-half of the way from Madagascar to Mozambique
0.20
0.20
?
?
35.20
?
?
200
?
12
claimed by Madagascar
tropical
a volcanic rock 2.4 meters high
Indian Ocean 0 m
unnamed location 3 m
none
0
0
0
0
100
0
NA
maritime hazard since it is usually under water during high tide and surrounded by reefs; subject to periodic cyclones
NA
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
none
Bassas da India
?
?
French possession administered by a Commissioner of the Republic, resident in Reunion
none; administered by France from Reunion
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
#
?
#
?
?
#
?
#
?
the flag of France is used
no economic activity
Transportation
#
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
none; offshore anchorage only
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
@Belarus
0
0$Minsk$5386$2750$1589000$
#
#
BEL
Eastern Europe, east of Poland
207600
207600
3098
Latvia 141 km, Lithuania 502 km, Poland 605 km, Russia 959 km, Ukraine 891 km
0
?
?
?
?
?
none
cold winters, cool and moist summers; transitional between continental and maritime
generally flat and contains much marshland
Nyoman River 90 m
Dzyarzhynskaya Hara 346 m
forests, peat deposits, small quantities of oil and natural gas
29
1
15
0
55
1490
soil pollution from pesticide use; southern part of the country contaminated with fallout from 1986 nuclear reactor accident at Chornobyl'
NA
party to - Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Biodiversity, Environmental Modification, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - Climate Change, Law of the Sea
10415973
21
1136499
1090101
66
3334077
3536982
13
429574
888740
0.20
12.15
13.64
3.51
1.05
1.04
0.94
0.48
0.89
13.40
68.57
63.20
74.21
1.69
Belarusian(s)
Belarusian
Byelorussian 77.9%, Russian 13.2%, Polish 4.1%, Ukrainian 2.9%, other 1.9%
#
Eastern Orthodox 60%, other (including Roman Catholic and Muslim) 40% (early 1990's)
note: the administrative centers of the voblastsi are included in parentheses
Independence: 25 August 1991 (from Soviet Union); the Belarussian Supreme Soviet issued a proclamation of independence; on 17 July 1990 Belarus issued a declaration of sovereignty
#
?
Independence Day, 27 July (1990)
adopted 15 March 1994; replaces constitution of April 1978
based on civil law system
18 years of age; universal
President Aleksandr LUKASHENKO (since 20 July 1994) was elected for a five-year term by popular vote; election last held 24 June and 10 July 1994 (next to be held NA 1999); results - Aleksandr LUKASHENKO 85%, Vyacheslav KEBICH 15%
Prime Minister Mikhail CHIGIR (since NA July 1994) was appointed by the president; Deputy Prime Ministers Vladimir GARKUN (since NA), Sergey LING (since NA), Leonid SINITSYN (since NA), Valeriy KOKAREV (since NA), Vladimir RUSAKEVICH (since NA)
#
Council of Ministers
note: first presidential elections took place in June-July 1994
#
unicameral
Supreme Soviet: elections last held May, Nov-Dec 1995 (two rounds, each with a run-off; next to be held NA 2000); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (260 total) KPB 42, Agrarian 33, CAB 9, Party of People's Concord 8, UPNAZ 2, SDPB 2, BPR 1, Green Party 1, Republican Party of Labor and Justice 1, BSP 1, NFB 1, Social and Sports Party 1, Ecological Party 1, independents 95, vacant 62
#
Supreme Court, judges are appointed by the president; Constitutional Court
Belarusian Communist Party (KPB), Vasiliy NOVIKOV, Viktor CHIKIN, chairmen; Agrarian Party, Semen SHARETSKIY; Civic Accord Bloc (CAB); Party of People's Concord, Gennadiy KARPENKO; Party of All-Belarusian Unity and Concord (UPNAZ), Dmitriy BULAKOV; Belarusian Social-Democrat Hramada (SDBP), Alex TRUSOV; Belarusian Patriotic Movement (BPR), Anatol BARANKEVICH; Green Party of Belarus, Mikalay KARTASH; Republican Party of Labor and Justice, Anatol NETSILKIN; Belarus Peasants (BSP), Yevgeniy LUGIN, chairman; Belarusian Popular Front (NFB), Zenon POZNYAK, chairman; Belarusian Social Sports Party, Vladimir ALEKSANDROVICH; Ecological Party, Aleksiy MIKULICH; National Democratic Party of Belarus (NDPB), Victor NAVUMENKA; United Democratic Party of Belarus (ADPB), Aleksandr DOBROVOLSKIY; Belarusian Socialist Party (SPB), Vyacheslav KUZNETSOV; Slavic Assembly (SAB), Nikolai SYARECHEV; Liberal-Democratic Party (LDPB), Vasil KRIVENKA; Belarusian Christian-Democratic Unity (BKDZ), Petr SILKO; Polish Democratic Union (PDZ), Konstantin TARASEVICH; Party of Beer Lovers, Yuriy GONCHAR; Belarusian Labor Party (BPP), Aleksandr BUKHVOSTOV
#
?
#
CCC, CE (guest), CIS, EBRD, ECE, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, Intelsat (nonsignatory user), Interpol, IOC, IOM (observer), ISO, ITU, NACC, OSCE, PCA, PFP, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTrO (applicant)
red horizontal band (top) and green horizontal band one-half the width of the red band; a white vertical stripe of white on the hoist side bears in red the Belarusian national ornament
At the time of independence in late 1991, Belarus was one of the most developed of the former Soviet states, inheriting a modern - by Soviet standards - machine building sector and robust agricultural sector. However, the breakup of the Soviet Union and its traditional trade ties, as well as the government's failure to embrace market reforms, has resulted in a sharp economic decline. Privatization is virtually nonexistent and the system of state orders and distribution persists. Although President LUKASHENKO pronounces his 1995 macro stabilization policies a success - annual inflation dropped from 2,220% in 1994 to 244% in 1995 - the IMF has criticized his insistence on maintaining the steady exchange rate for Belarusian rubel, which has traded at 11,500 to the dollar since late 1994. The IMF suspended Minsk's $300 million standby program in November 1995 until the government would agree to a devaluation of the rubel. The overvalued rubel has especially hurt Belarusian exporters, most of which now operate at a loss. In addition, the January 1995 Customs Union agreement with Russia - which required Minsk to adjust its foreign trade practices to mirror Moscow's - has resulted in higher import tariffs for Belarusian consumers; tariffs have risen from 5%-20% to 20%-40%.
#
-10
2110
21978
21
49
30
244
4259000
industry and construction 40%, agriculture and forestry 21%, other 39% (1992)
2.60
4950
5470
tractors, metal-cutting machine tools, off-highway dump trucks up to 110-metric-ton load capacity, wheel-type earth movers for construction and mining, eight-wheel-drive, high-flotation trucks with cargo capacity of 25 metric tons for use in tundra and roadless areas, equipment for animal husbandry and livestock feeding, motorcycles, television sets, chemical fibers, fertilizer, linen fabric, wool fabric, radios, refrigerators, other consumer goods
-11
7.01
24900
2300
grain, potatoes, vegetables; meat, milk
illicit cultivator of opium poppy and cannabis; mostly for the domestic market; transshipment point for illicit drugs to Western Europe
4200
machinery and transport equipment, chemicals, foodstuffs
Russia, Ukraine, Poland, Germany
4600
fuel, natural gas, industrial raw materials, textiles, sugar
Russia, Ukraine, Poland, Germany
2000
ODA, $186 million (1993)
?
Belarusian rubel (BR)
11500
calendar year
5488
5,488 km 1.520-m gauge (873 km electrified) (1993)
92200
61,000 km (including graveled)
31,200 km (1994 est.)
?
1470
?
1980
Mazyr
?
?
?
?
118
2
18
5
?
11
1
6
4
9
62
?
1849000
the new NMT-450 analog cellular system is now operating in Minsk
international traffic is carried by the Moscow international gateway switch and also by satellite; satellite earth stations - 1 Intelsat (through Canada) and 1 Eutelsat (through the UK)
35
18
0
3170000
2
3500000
Army, Air Force, Air Defense Force, Republic Security Forces (internal and border troops)
#
2635570
2067676
76006
?
1
@Belgium
0
0$Bruxelles$5085$435$960000$
1$Antwerpen$5122$442$465000$
1$Gent$5107$369$230000$
1$Charleroi$5040$444$206000$
1$LiΦge$5064$558$196000$
#
Belgium is one of the smallest and most densely populated countries of
Europe. The area formed a part of the United Netherlands from 1815 to 1830.
It became independent in 1831 as a hereditary, representative and
constitutional monarchy. Ancient Latin and German heritages meet, but fail
to mix, in Belgium. Apart from a small German-speaking population in the
east, the country is divided between the Dutch-speaking Flemings in the
north and the French-speaking Walloons in the south. The various political
entities which preceded Belgium have left a heritage rich with both cultural
and historical associations, with medieval university cities, small village
communities, and traditions in the arts. Belgium has been the scene of major
European conflicts, including Waterloo, and the two World Wars. Today it is
the most heavily industrialized nation in europe.
#
B
Western Europe, bordering the North Sea, between France and the Netherlands
30510
30230
1385
France 620 km, Germany 167 km, Luxembourg 148 km, Netherlands 450 km
flat coastal plains in northwest, central rolling hills, rugged mountains of Ardennes Forest in southeast
North Sea 0 m
Signal de Botrange 694 m
coal, natural gas
24
1
20
21
34
10
Meuse River, a major source of drinking water, polluted from steel production wastes; other rivers polluted by animal wastes and fertilizers; industrial air pollution contributes to acid rain in neighboring countries
flooding is a threat in areas of reclaimed coastal land, protected from the sea by concrete dikes
party to - Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Antarctic Treaty, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Law of the Sea
10170241
18
930919
886632
66
3380105
3326853
16
663760
981972
0.33
12
10.30
1.63
1.06
1.05
1.02
0.68
0.96
6.40
77.09
73.86
80.51
1.69
Belgian(s)
Belgian
Fleming 55%, Walloon 33%, mixed or other 12%
#
Roman Catholic 75%, Protestant or other 25%
Dutch 56%, French 32%, German 1%, legally bilingual 11% (divided along ethnic lines)
note: constitutional reforms passed by Parliament in 1993 increased the number of provinces to 10 by splitting the province of Brabant into two new provinces, Flemish Brabant and Walloon Brabant
Independence: 4 October 1830 (from the Netherlands)
#
?
National Day, 21 July (ascension of King LEOPOLD to the throne in 1831)
7 February 1831, last revised 14 July 1993; parliament approved a constitutional package creating a federal state
civil law system influenced by English constitutional theory; judicial review of legislative acts; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with reservations
18 years of age; universal and compulsory
King ALBERT II (since 9 August 1993) is a constitutional monarch
Prime Minister Jean-Luc DEHAENE (since 6 March 1992) was appointed by the king and then approved by Parliament
#
Cabinet is appointed by the king and approved by Parliament
#
bicameral Parliament
Senate (Flemish - Senaat, French - Senat): elections last held 21 May 1995 (next to be held by the end of 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (71 total, 40 directly elected; 31 will be indirectly elected at a later date) CVP 7, SP 6, VLD 6, VU 2, AGALEV 1, VB 3, PS 5, PRL 5, PSC 3, ECOLO 2; note - before the 1995 elections, there were 184 seats
Chamber of Deputies(Flemish - Kamer van Volksvertegenwoordig: elections last held 21 May 1995 (next to be held by the end of 1999); results - CVP 17.2%, PS 11.9%, SP 12.6%, VLD 13.1%, PRL 10.3%, PSC 7.7%, VB 7.8%, VU 4.7%, ECOLO 4.0%, AGALEV 4.4%, FN 2.3%; seats - (150 total) CVP 29, PS 21, SP 20, VLD 21, PRL 18, PSC 12, VB 11, VU 5, ECOLO 6, AGALEV 5, FN 2; note - before the 1995 elections, there were 212 seats
#
Supreme Court of Justice (Flemish - Hof van Cassatie, French - Cour de Cassation), judges are appointed for life by the Belgian monarch
Flemish Christian Democrats (CVP - Christian People's Party), Johan VAN HECKE, president; Francophone Christian Democrats (PSC - Social Christian Party), Gerard DEPREZ, president; Flemish Socialist Party (SP), Louis TOBBACK, president; Francophone Socialist Party (PS), Philippe BUSQUIN, president; Flemish Liberal Democrats (VLD), Herman DE CROO, president; Francophone Liberal Reformation Party (PRL), Louis MICHEL, president; Francophone Democratic Front (FDF), Olivier MAINGAIN, president; Volksunie (VU), Bert ANCIAUX, president; Vlaams Blok (VB), Karel DILLEN, chairman; National Front (FN), Daniel FERET, president; AGALEV (Flemish Greens), no president; ECOLO (Francophone Greens), no president; other minor parties
#
Christian and Socialist Trade Unions; Federation of Belgian Industries; numerous other associations representing bankers, manufacturers, middle-class artisans, and the legal and medical professions; various organizations represent the cultural interests of Flanders and Wallonia; various peace groups such as the Flemish Action Committee Against Nuclear Weapons and Pax Christi
three equal vertical bands of black (hoist side), yellow, and red; the design was based on the flag of France
This small private enterprise economy has capitalized on its central geographic location, highly developed transport network, and diversified industrial and commercial base. Industry is concentrated mainly in the populous Flemish area in the north, although the government is encouraging reinvestment in the southern region of Walloon. With few natural resources, Belgium must import substantial quantities of raw materials and export a large volume of manufactures, making its economy unusually dependent on the state of world markets. Two-thirds of its trade is with other EU countries. The economy grew at a strong 4% annual pace during the period 1988-90, slowed to 1% in 1991-92, dropped by 1.5% in 1993, and recovered with moderate 2.3% growth in 1994 and 1995. Belgium's public debt has risen to 140% of GDP, and the government is trying to control its expenditures to bring the figure more into line with other industrialized countries.
#
2.30
24820
252425
2
28
70
1.60
4126000.00
services 63.6%, industry 28%, construction 6.1%, agriculture 2.3% (1988)
14
?
?
engineering and metal products, motor vehicle assembly, processed food and beverages, chemicals, basic metals, textiles, glass, petroleum, coal
Formerly British Honduras, Belize became independent in 1981 and held its
first general elections in December 1984. These brought to an end the long
rule of the People's United Party under George Cadle Prince, who had served
as head of government since 1961. The opposition United Democratic Party led
by Manuel Esquivel won 21 of 28 seats in the House of representatives.
Belize remains a member of the Commonwealth with the British monarch as head
of state, represented by the governor-general. The latter selects the 8
members of the second house of the parliament, the Senate. Together with
Guatemala and the east of Mexico, Belize formed part of the Mayan empire
which was at its peak between 200-900BC. English woodcutters established the
first European settlement in 1638. Attempts by the Spanish, who ruled over
the neighbouring regions, to dislodge the English failed. The border between
Guatemala and British Honduras was agreed in 1859, but this failed to end
the border conflicts. British troops were sent to Belize in 1975 and 1977 to
protect the country from invasion by Guatemala.
#
BZ
Middle America, bordering the Caribbean Sea, between Guatemala and Mexico
22960
22800
516
Guatemala 266 km, Mexico 250 km
386
?
?
200
?
12
border with Guatemala in dispute; talks to resolve the dispute are stalled
tropical; very hot and humid; rainy season (May to February)
flat, swampy coastal plain; low mountains in south
Caribbean Sea 0 m
Victoria Peak 1,160 m
arable land potential, timber, fish
2
0
2
44
52
20
deforestation; water pollution from sewage, industrial effluents, agricultural runoff
frequent, devastating hurricanes (September to December) and coastal flooding (especially in south)
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Whaling
219296
43
48291
46451
53
59132
57498
4
3881
4043
2.42
32.80
5.73
-2.89
1.05
1.04
1.03
0.96
1.03
33.90
68.53
66.58
70.58
4.12
Belizean(s)
Belizean
mestizo 44%, Creole 30%, Maya 11%, Garifuna 7%, other 8%
#
Roman Catholic 62%, Protestant 30% (Anglican 12%, Methodist 6%, Mennonite 4%, Seventh-Day Adventist 3%, Pentecostal 2%, Jehovah's Witnesses 1%, other 2%), none 2%, other 6% (1980)
English (official), Spanish, Mayan, Garifuna (Carib)
70.30
70.30
70.30
none
Belize
?
?
parliamentary democracy
Belmopan
6 districts; Belize, Cayo, Corozal, Orange Walk, Stann Creek, Toledo
Independence: 21 September 1981 (from UK)
#
?
Independence Day, 21 September (1981)
21 September 1981
English law
18 years of age; universal
Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952), a hereditary monarch, is represented by Governor General Sir Colville YOUNG (since 17 November 1993), who, according to the constitution, must be a Belizean; was appointed by the queen
Prime Minister Manuel ESQUIVEL (since July 1993) was appointed by the governor general; Deputy Prime Minister Dean BARROW (since NA 1993)
#
Cabinet was appointed by the governor general on the advice of the prime minister
#
bicameral National Assembly
Senate: consists of an eight-member appointed body; five members are appointed on the advice of the prime minister, two on the advice of the leader of the opposition, and one after consultation with the Belize Advisory Council (this council serves as an independent body to advise the governor general with respect to difficult decisions such as granting pardons, commutations, stays of execution, the removal of justices of appeal who appear to be incompetent, etc.)
National Assembly: elections last held 30 June 1993 (next to be held NA June 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (28 total) PUP 13 UDP 15
#
Supreme Court, the chief justice is appointed by the governor general on advice of the prime minister
People's United Party (PUP), George PRICE, Florencio MARIN, Said MUSA; United Democratic Party (UDP), Manuel ESQUIVEL, Dean LINDO, Dean BARROW; National Alliance for Belizean Rights, Philip GOLDSON
#
Society for the Promotion of Education and Research (SPEAR), Assad SHOMAN; United Workers Front, leader NA
blue with a narrow red stripe along the top and the bottom edges; centered is a large white disk bearing the coat of arms; the coat of arms features a shield flanked by two workers in front of a mahogany tree with the related motto SUB UMBRA FLOREO (I Flourish in the Shade) on a scroll at the bottom, all encircled by a green garland
The small, essentially private enterprise economy is based primarily on agriculture, agro-based industry, and merchandising, with tourism and construction assuming increasing importance. Agriculture accounts for about 30% of GDP and provides 75% of export earnings, while sugar, the chief crop, accounts for almost 40% of hard currency earnings. The US, Belize's main trading partner, is assisting in efforts to reduce dependency on sugar with an agricultural diversification program.
#
2
2630
577
30
?
?
2.30
51500
agriculture 30%, services 16%, government 15.4%, commerce 11.2%, manufacturing 10.3%
10
126.80
123.10
garment production, food processing, tourism, construction
trunk network depends primarily on microwave radio relay
satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean)
6
5
1
?
1
27048
Belize Defense Force (includes Army, Navy, Air Force, and Volunteer Guard), Belize National Police
#
52290
31086
2390
8100000
?
@Benin
0
0$Cotonou$633$242$650000$
#
Benin is a unitary single-party peoples republic with one legislative house
(National Revolutionary Assembly) with 196 seats. Since the 17th century the
country was known as the Kingdom of Dahomey. Formerly a part of French West
Africa, it became independent as the Republic of Dahomey on 1 August 1960.
The present name was given on 1 December 1975 when the military government
adopted a Marxist-Leninist constitution and Benin became a people's
republic.
#
RPB
Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Nigeria and Togo
112620
110620
1989
Burkina Faso 306 km, Niger 266 km, Nigeria 773 km, Togo 644 km
121
?
?
?
?
200
none
tropical; hot, humid in south; semiarid in north
mostly flat to undulating plain; some hills and low mountains
Atlantic Ocean 0 m
Mount Tanekas 641 m
small offshore oil deposits, limestone, marble, timber
12
4
4
35
45
60
recent droughts have severely affected marginal agriculture in north; inadequate supplies of potable water; poaching threatens wildlife populations; deforestation; desertification
hot, dry, dusty harmattan wind may affect north in winter
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Law of the Sea
5709529
48
1376531
1367394
50
1349386
1480251
2
60030
75937
3.32
46.76
13.53
0
1.03
1.01
0.91
0.79
0.95
105.10
52.69
50.74
54.70
6.64
Beninese (singular and plural)
Beninese
African 99% (42 ethnic groups, most important being Fon, Adja, Yoruba, Bariba), Europeans 5,500
#
indigenous beliefs 70%, Muslim 15%, Christian 15%
French (official), Fon and Yoruba (most common vernaculars in south), tribal languages (at least six major ones in north)
37
48.70
25.80
Republic of Benin
Benin
Republique du Benin
Benin
republic under multiparty democratic rule dropped Marxism-Leninism December 1989; democratic reforms adopted February 1990; transition to multiparty system completed 4 April 1991
Porto-Novo
6 provinces; Atakora, Atlantique, Borgou, Mono, Oueme, Zou
Independence: 1 August 1960 (from France)
#
?
National Day, 1 August (1990)
2 December 1990
based on French civil law and customary law; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
18 years of age; universal
President Mathieu KEREKOU (since 4 April 1996) was elected for a five-year term by popular vote; election last held 18 March 1996 (next to be held March 2001); results - Mathieu KEREKOU 52.49%, Nicephore SOGLO 47.51%
?
#
Executive Council, appointed by the president
#
unicameral
National Assembly (Assemblee Nationale): elections last held 28 March 1995 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (83 total) Renaissance Party and allies 20, PRD 19, FARD-ALAFIA 10, PSD 7, NCC 3, RDL-VIVOTEN 3, Communist Party 2, Alliance Chameleon 1, RDP 1, ADP 1, other 16
#
Supreme Court (Cour Supreme)
as of February 1996, more than 80 political parties were officially recognized; the following are represented in the National Assembly: Alliance of the National Party for Democracy and Development (PNDD) and the Democratic Renewal Party (PRD), Pascal Chabi KAO; Action for Renewal and Development (FARD-ALAFIA), Mathieu KEREKOU; Alliance of the Social Democratic Party (PSD) and the National Union for Solidarity and Progress (UNSP), Bruno AMOUSSOU; Alliance Chameleon; Alliance for Democracy and Progress (ADP), Adekpedjon AKINDES; Alliance for Social Democracy (ASD), Robert DOSSOU; Assembly of Liberal Democrats for National Reconstruction (RDL), Severin ADJOVI; Communist Party of Benin, Pascal FATONDJI, First Secretary; Our Common Cause (NCC), Albert TEVOEDJRE; Rally for Democracy and Progress (RDP); The Renaissance Party, Nicephore SOGLO
two equal horizontal bands of yellow (top) and red with a vertical green band on the hoist side
The economy of Benin remains underdeveloped and dependent on subsistence agriculture, cotton production, and regional trade. Growth in real output, which had averaged a sound 4% in 1990-94, rose to 6% in 1995. Rapid population growth, now 3.3% per year, offset much of this growth in output. Inflation jumped to 55% in 1994 (compared to 3% in 1993) following the 50% currency devaluation in January 1994, but subsided gradually in 1995. Commercial and transport activities, which make up 37% of GDP, are extremely vulnerable to developments in Nigeria as evidenced by decreased reexport trade in 1994 due to a severe contraction in Nigerian demand. Support by the Paris Club and official bilateral creditors has eased the external debt situation in recent years. The government, still burdened with money-losing state enterprises and a bloated civil service, has been gradually implementing a World Bank supported structural adjustment program since 1991.
#
6
370
2113
36.80
12.60
50.60
55
1900000
agriculture 60%, transport, commerce, and public services 38%, industry less than 2%
?
272
375
textiles, cigarettes; beverages, food; construction materials, petroleum
France 24%, Thailand 12%, Netherlands 7%, US 5%, China, Hong Kong
1500
ODA, $NA
?
1 Communaute Financiere Africaine franc (CFAF) = 100 centimes
500.56
calendar year
578
578 km 1.000-m gauge
6070
1,214 km
4,856 km (1992 est.)
?
?
?
?
Cotonou, Porto-Novo
?
?
?
?
5
?
2
?
?
?
?
?
1
2
?
?
16200
fair system of open wire and microwave radio relay
satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean); submarine cable
2
2
0
?
2
20000
Armed Forces (includes Army, Navy, Air Force), National Gendarmerie
#
1212440
620923
62526
33000000
3.20
@Bermuda
0
0$Hamilton$3231$-6475$2000$
#
#
[GB]
North America, group of islands in the North Atlantic Ocean, east of North Carolina (US)
50
50
?
?
103
?
?
?
200
12
none
subtropical; mild, humid; gales, strong winds common in winter
low hills separated by fertile depressions
Atlantic Ocean 0 m
Town Hill 76 m
limestone, pleasant climate fostering tourism
0
0
0
20
80
?
NA
hurricanes (June to November)
NA
62099
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
0.76
15
7.30
-0.13
?
?
?
?
?
13.16
75.03
73.36
76.97
1.80
Bermudian(s)
Bermudian
black 61%, white and other 39%
#
Anglican 37%, Roman Catholic 14%, African Methodist Episcopal (Zion) 10%, Methodist 6%, Seventh-Day Adventist 5%, other 28%
English
98
98
99
none
Bermuda
?
?
dependent territory of the UK
Hamilton
9 parishes and 2 municipalities*; Devonshire, Hamilton, Hamilton*, Paget, Pembroke, Saint George*, Saint Georges, Sandys, Smiths, Southampton, Warwick
Independence: none (dependent territory of the UK)
#
?
Bermuda Day, 24 May
8 June 1968
English law
18 years of age; universal
Queen ELIZABETH II (of the United Kingdom since 6 February 1952), a hereditary monarch, is represented by Governor Lord David WADDINGTON (since 25 August 1992), who was appointed by the queen
Premier David SAUL (since 25 August 1995) was appointed by the governor; Deputy Premier Jerome DILL (since 1 September 1995)
#
Cabinet was nominated by the premier, appointed by the governor
#
bicameral Parliament
Senate: consists of an 11-member body appointed by the governor
House of Assembly: elections last held 5 October 1993 (next to be held by NA October 1998); results - UBP 50%, PLP 46%, independents 4%; seats - (40 total) UBP 22, PLP 18
#
Supreme Court
United Bermuda Party (UBP), David SAUL; Progressive Labor Party (PLP), Frederick WADE; National Liberal Party (NLP), Gilbert DARRELL
#
Bermuda Industrial Union (BIU), Ottiwell SIMMONS
#
Caricom (observer), CCC, ICFTU, Interpol (subbureau), IOC
red with the flag of the UK in the upper hoist-side quadrant and the Bermudian coat of arms (white and blue shield with a red lion holding a scrolled shield showing the sinking of the ship Sea Venture off Bermuda in 1609) centered on the outer half of the flag
Bermuda enjoys one of the highest per capita incomes in the world, having successfully exploited its location by providing luxury tourist facilities and financial services. The tourist industry attracts more than 90% of its business from North America. The industrial sector is small, and agriculture is severely limited by a lack of suitable land. About 80% of food needs are imported. International business contributes over 60% of Bermuda's economic output; a failed independence vote in late 1995 can be partially attributed to Bermudian's fear of scaring away foreign firms. Hurricane Felix, which hit Bermuda twice over three days, caused an estimated $2.5 million in damages in August of 1995.
#
2.50
28000
1739
?
?
?
2.60
33650
clerical 25%, services 22%, laborers 21%, professional and technical 13%, administrative and managerial 10%, sales 7%, agriculture and fishing 2% (1984)
The creation of the entity now known as Bhutan is credited to Mgawang
Mangyal, a Tibetan Drukpa-lama, who entered the region in 1616 and died in
1651. He ended, at least for some time, the various conflicts between the
local rulers of the western provinces. After 1639 Mangyal was given the
title of Shabdung, the uppermost religious and worldly leader. The
theocratic system he developed continued until 1907. In 1907, Ugyen
Wangchuck was made hereditary king, being recognized by the British as the
sole ruler of Bhutan. The present king, Jigme Singye Wangchuk, is the fourth
in this line of hereditary rulers. The Treaty of Punakha in 1910 gave
British-India power of control over Bhutan's external relations. With Indian
independence in 1947 this control passed to India. Bhutan became a
constitutional monarchy in 1969 when the king delegated part of his
previously absolute power to the council of ministers and the Tsogdu, or
parliament. The Tsogdu has 150 members, 45 of whom are reserved for
civil-servants, ministers, royal advisers and lamas. The remaining 105
members are chosen by general election.
#
BHT
Southern Asia, between China and India
47000
47000
1075
China 470 km, India 605 km
0
?
?
?
?
?
none
varies; tropical in southern plains; cool winters and hot summers in central valleys; severe winters and cool summers in Himalayas
mostly mountainous with some fertile valleys and savanna
Dangme Chu 97 m
Khula Kangri I 7,553 m
timber, hydropower, gypsum, calcium carbide
2
0
5
70
23
340
soil erosion; limited access to potable water
violent storms coming down from the Himalayas are the source of the country's name which translates as Land of the Thunder Dragon; frequent landslides during the rainy season
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Nuclear Test Ban; signed, but not ratified - Law of the Sea
1822625
40
378407
351146
56
524972
496715
4
36304
35081
2.32
38.48
15.28
0
1.05
1.08
1.06
1.04
1.06
116.30
51.46
51.96
50.93
5.33
Bhutanese (singular and plural)
Bhutanese
Bhote 50%, ethnic Nepalese 35%, indigenous or migrant tribes 15%
#
Lamaistic Buddhism 75%, Indian- and Nepalese-influenced Hinduism 25%
Dzongkha (official), Bhotes speak various Tibetan dialects, Nepalese speak various Nepalese dialects
National Day, 17 December (1907) (Ugyen Wangchuck became first hereditary king)
no written constitution or bill of rights
based on Indian law and English common law; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
each family has one vote in village-level elections
King Jigme Singye WANGCHUCK (since 24 July 1972) is a hereditary monarch
?
#
Council of Ministers (Lhengye Shungtsog) was appointed by the king
#
unicameral
National Assembly (Tshogdu): members serve for three years; seats - (150 total, 105 elected from village constituencies, 12 represent religious bodies, and 33 designated by the king to represent government and other secular interests)
#
the Supreme Court of Appeal is the king; High Court, judges appointed by the king
no legal parties
#
Buddhist clergy; Indian merchant community; ethnic Nepalese organizations leading militant antigovernment campaign
divided diagonally from the lower hoist side corner; the upper triangle is yellow and the lower triangle is orange; centered along the dividing line is a large black and white dragon facing away from the hoist side
The economy, one of the world's smallest and least developed, is based on agriculture and forestry, which provide the main livelihood for 90% of the population and account for about half of GDP. Agriculture consists largely of subsistence farming and animal husbandry. Rugged mountains dominate the terrain and make the building of roads and other infrastructure difficult and expensive. The economy is closely aligned with India's through strong trade and monetary links. The industrial sector is small and technologically backward, with most production of the cottage industry type. Most development projects, such as road construction, rely on Indian migrant labor. Bhutan's hydropower potential and its attraction for tourists are key resources; however, the government limits the number of tourists to 4,000 per year to minimize foreign influence. The Bhutanese Government has made some progress in expanding the nation's productive base and improving social welfare but growth continues to be constrained by the government's desire to protect the country's environment and cultural traditions. Growth picked up in 1995 and the country's balance of payments remained strong with comfortable reserves. The cautious fiscal stance planned for FY95/96 suggests continued economic stability in 1996. However, excessive controls and uncertain policies in areas like industrial licensing, trade, labor, and finance continue to hamper foreign investment.
#
6
420
766
?
?
?
8.60
?
agriculture 93%, services 5%, industry and commerce 2%
fuel and lubricants, grain, machinery and parts, vehicles, fabrics, rice
India 77%, Japan, UK, Germany, US
141
$NA
?
1 ngultrum (Nu) = 100 chetrum; note - Indian currency is also legal tender
35.77
1 July - 30 June
?
1296
416 km
880 km (1988 est.)
?
?
?
?
none
?
?
?
?
2
?
?
1
?
?
?
?
?
1
?
?
4620
domestic telephone service is very poor with very few telephones in use
international telephone and telegraph service is by landline through India; a satellite earth station was planned (1990)
1
1
0
23000
0
200
Royal Bhutan Army, Palace Guard, Militia
#
444875
237529
17634
?
?
@Bolivia
0
0$La Paz$-1650$-6815$1189000$
1$Sucre$-1908$-6825$146000$
1$Santa Cruz$-1775$-6323$876000$
1$Cochabamba$-1725$-6633$561000$
3$Sajama$-1815$-6887$6520$
#
The area was conquered by the Incas in the 15th century. In 1532 the Spanish
in turn conquered the Incas and set up colonies, primarily around the silver
mines of Potosi, and Bolivia (Altu Peru) became part of a large Peruvian
region under Spanish control. At the start of the 19th century an
independence movement was born among the white elite of Spanish descent.
Sim∙n Bolivar played a major role in this movement. Bolivia became an
independent republic in 1825. The constitution of 1948 (which has been more
or less ignored since 1969) gives the right of presidential veto on all
decisions which do not obtain a two-thirds majority in parliament. The
various military juntas, however, have given themselves an even grater power
by simply eliminating the parliament. This parliament (Congreso Nacional)
consists of a Senate (27 seats) and a Chamber of Deputies (130 seats),
chosen by general election.
#
BOL
Central South America, southwest of Brazil
1098580
1084390
6743
Argentina 832 km, Brazil 3,400 km, Chile 861 km, Paraguay 750 km, Peru 900 km
0
?
?
?
?
?
has wanted a sovereign corridor to the South Pacific Ocean since the Atacama area was lost to Chile in 1884; dispute with Chile over Rio Lauca water rights
varies with altitude; humid and tropical to cold and semiarid
rugged Andes Mountains with a highland plateau (Altiplano), hills, lowland plains of the Amazon Basin
the clearing of land for agricultural purposes and the international demand for tropical timber are contributing to deforestation; soil erosion from overgrazing and poor cultivation methods (including slash-and-burn agriculture); desertification; loss of biodiversity; industrial pollution of water supplies used for drinking and irrigation
cold, thin air of high plateau is obstacle to efficient fuel combustion, as well as to physical activity by those unaccustomed to it from birth; flooding in the northeast (March-April)
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Tropical Timber 83, Tropical Timber 94, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Ozone Layer Protection
7165257
39
1422313
1390885
56
1959989
2042135
5
153111
196824
1.82
32.37
10.75
-3.41
1.05
1.02
0.96
0.78
0.97
67.50
59.81
56.94
62.82
4.25
Bolivian(s)
Bolivian
Quechua 30%, Aymara 25%, mestizo (mixed European and Indian ancestry) 25%-30%, European 5%-15%
#
Roman Catholic 95%, Protestant (Evangelical Methodist)
Spanish (official), Quechua (official), Aymara (official)
83.10
90.50
76
Republic of Bolivia
Bolivia
Republica de Bolivia
Bolivia
republic
La Paz (seat of government); Sucre (legal capital and seat of judiciary)
9 departments (departamentos, singular - departamento); Chuquisaca, Cochabamba, Beni, La Paz, Oruro, Pando, Potosi, Santa Cruz, Tarija
Independence: 6 August 1825 (from Spain)
#
?
Independence Day, 6 August (1825)
2 February 1967
based on Spanish law and Napoleonic Code; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
18 years of age, universal and compulsory (married); 21 years of age, universal and compulsory (single)
President Gonzalo SANCHEZ DE LOZADA Bustamente (since 6 August 1993) and Vice President Victor Hugo CARDENAS Conde (since 6 August 1993) were elected for four-year terms by popular vote; election last held 6 June 1993 (next to be held NA May 1997); results - Gonzalo SANCHEZ DE LOZADA (MNR) 34%, Hugo BANZER Suarez (ADN/MIR alliance) 20%, Carlos PALENQUE Aviles (CONDEPA) 14%, Max FERNANDEZ Rojas (UCS) 13%, Antonio ARANIBAR Quiroga (MBL) 5%; no candidate received a majority of the popular vote; Gonzalo SANCHEZ DE LOZADA won a congressional runoff election on 4 August 1993 after forming a coalition with Max FERNANDEZ and Antonio ARANIBAR; FERNANDEZ died in a plane crash 26 November 1995
?
#
Cabinet was appointed by the president from panel of candidates proposed by the Senate
#
bicameral National Congress (Congreso Nacional)
Chamber of Deputies (Camara de Diputados): elections last held 6 June 1993 (next to be held NA May 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (130 total) MNR 52, UCS 20, ADN 17, MIR 17, CONDEPA 13, MBL 7, ARBOL 1, ASD 1, EJE 1, PCD 1
Chamber of Senators (Camara de Senadores): elections last held 6 June 1993 (next to be held NA May 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (27 total) MNR 17, ADN 4, MIR 4, CONDEPA 1, UCS 1
#
Supreme Court (Corte Suprema), judges appointed for a 10-year term by National Congress
Left parties: Free Bolivia Movement (MBL), Antonio ARANIBAR; April 9 Revolutionary Vanguard (VR-9), Carlos SERRATE; Alternative of Democratic Socialism (ASD), Jerjes JUSTINIANO; Revolutionary Front of the Left (FRI), Oscar ZAMORA; Bolivian Socialist Falange (FSB); Socialist Unzaguista Movement (MAS); Socialist Party One (PS-1); Bolivian Communist Party (PCB)
Center-Left parties: Nationalist Revolutionary Movement (MNR), Gonzalo SANCHEZ DE LOZADA; Movement of the Revolutionary Left (MIR), Jaime PAZ Zamora, Oscar EID; Christian Democrat (PCD), Jorge AGREDA
Center-Right party: Nationalist Democratic Action (ADN), Jorge LANDIVAR, Hugo BANZER
Populist parties: Civic Solidarity Union (UCS), Johnny FERNANDEZ; Conscience of the Fatherland (CONDEPA), Carlos PALENQUE Aviles; Popular Patriotic Movement (MPP), Julio MANTILLA; Unity and Progress Movement (MUP), Ivo KULJIS
Evangelical: Bolivian Renovating Alliance (ARBOL), Hugo VILLEGAS
indigenous: Tupac Katari Revolutionary Liberation Movement (MRTK-L), Victor Hugo CARDENAS Conde; Patriotic Axis of Convergence (EJE-P), Ramiro BARRANCHEA; National Katarista Movement (MKN), Fernando UNTOJA
three equal horizontal bands of red (top), yellow, and green with the coat of arms centered on the yellow band; similar to the flag of Ghana, which has a large black five-pointed star centered in the yellow band
With its long history of semifeudal social controls, dependence on volatile prices for its mineral exports, and bouts of hyperinflation, Bolivia has remained one of the poorest and least developed Latin American countries. However, Bolivia has experienced generally improving economic conditions since the PAZ Estenssoro administration (1985-89) introduced market-oriented policies which reduced inflation from 11,700% in 1985 to about 20% in 1988. PAZ Estenssoro was followed as president by Jaime PAZ Zamora (1989-93) who continued the free-market policies of his predecessor, despite opposition from his own party and from Bolivia's once powerful labor movement. By maintaining fiscal discipline, PAZ Zamora helped reduce inflation to 9.3% in 1993, while GDP grew by an annual average of 3.25% during his tenure. Inaugurated in August 1993, President SANCHEZ DE LOZADA has vowed to advance the market-oriented economic reforms he helped launch as PAZ Estenssoro's planning minister. His successes so far have included the signing of a free trade agreement with Mexico and progress on his unique privatization plan. The main privatization bill was passed by the Bolivian legislature in late March 1994. Since that time, the administration has privatized the electric power generation sector, the state airline, the state telephone company, and the national railroad. The state mining and petroleum companies are expected to be privatized in 1996.
#
3.70
800
5732
?
?
?
12
3540000
agriculture NA%, services and utilities 20%, manufacturing, mining and construction 7% (1993)
8
3750
3750
mining, smelting, petroleum, food and beverages, tobacco, handicrafts, clothing
world's third-largest cultivator of coca (after Peru and Colombia) with an estimated 48,600 hectares under cultivation in 1995, a one percent increase in overall cultivation of coca over 1994 levels; Bolivia, however, is the second-largest producer of harvested coca leaf; even so, voluntary and forced eradication programs resulted in leaf production dropping from 89,800 metric tons in 1994 to 85,000 tons in 1995; government considers all but 12,000 hectares illicit; intermediate coca products and cocaine exported to or through Colombia and Brazil to the US and other international drug markets; alternative crop program aims to reduce illicit coca cultivation
US 24%, Argentina 13%, Brazil 11%, Japan 11% (1993 est.)
4400
ODA, $362 million (1993)
?
1 boliviano ($B) = 100 centavos
4.91
calendar year
3691
3,652 km 1.000-m gauge; 39 km 0.760-m gauge (13 km electrified) (1995)
46311
1,940 km (including 27 km of expressways)
44,371 km (1991 est.)
10000
1800
580
1495
none; however, Bolivia has free port privileges in the maritime ports of Argentina, Brazil, Chile, and Paraguay
1
4214
6390
?
1017
3
4
3
?
750
?
2
69
186
?
?
144300
microwave radio relay system being expanded
satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean)
129
0
68
?
43
500000
Army (Ejercito Boliviano), Navy (Fuerza Naval Boliviana, includes Marines), Air Force (Fuerza Aerea Boliviana), National Police Force (Policia Nacional de Bolivia)
#
1685572
1098948
76035
145000000
?
@Bosnia And Herzegovina
0
0$Sarajevo$4386$1843$300000$
#
The Bosnian conflict began in the
spring of 1992 when the Government of Bosnia and Herzegovina held a
referendum on independence and the Bosnian Serbs - supported by neighboring
Serbia - responded with armed resistance aimed at partitioning the republic
along ethnic lines and joining Serb-held areas to form a "greater Serbia."
In March 1994, Bosnia's Muslims and Croats reduced the number of warring
factions from three to two by signing an agreement in Washington creating
their joint Muslim/Croat Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
A group of rebel
Muslims, however, continues to battle government forces in the
northwest enclave of Bihac. A Contact Group of countries, the US, UK,
France, Germany, and Russia, continues to seek a resolution between
the Federation and the Bosnian Serbs. In July of 1994 the Contact
Group presented a plan to the warring parties that roughly equally
divides the country between the two, while maintaining Bosnia in its
current internationally recognized borders. The Federation agreed to
the plan almost immediately, while the Bosnian Serbs rejected it.
On 21 November 1995, in Dayton, Ohio, the former Yugoslavia's three
warring parties signed a peace agreement that brought to a halt over
three years of interethnic civil strife in Bosnia and Herzegovina (the
final agreement was signed in Paris on 14 December 1995). The Dayton
Agreement, signed by Bosnian President IZETBEGOVIC, Croatian President
TUDJMAN, and Serbian President MILOSEVIC, divides Bosnia and Herzegovina
roughly equally between the Muslim/Croat Federation and the Bosnian Serbs
while maintaining Bosnia's currently recognized borders. An international
peacekeeping force (IFOR) of 60,000 troops began to enter Bosnia in late
1995 to implement and monitor the military aspects of the agreement and is
scheduled to depart the country within one year. A High Representative
appointed by the UN Security Council is responsible for civilian
implementation of the accord, including monitoring implementation,
facilitating any difficulties arising in connection with civilian
implementation, and coordinating activities of the civilian organizations
and agencies in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
#
BOS
Southeastern Europe, bordering the Adriatic Sea and Croatia
51233
51233
1459
Croatia 932 km, Serbia and Montenegro 527 km (312 km with Serbia, 215 km with Montenegro)
20
?
?
?
?
?
none
hot summers and cold winters; areas of high elevation have short, cool summers and long, severe winters; mild, rainy winters along coast
air pollution from metallurgical plants; sites for disposing of urban waste are limited; widespread casualties, water shortages, and destruction of infrastructure because of civil strife
frequent and destructive earthquakes
party to - Air Pollution, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection
2656240
20
276530
248519
68
892807
915686
12
133081
189617
-2.84
6.34
15.92
-18.82
1.07
1.11
0.98
0.70
0.96
43.20
56.11
51.16
61.39
1
Bosnian(s), Herzegovinian(s)
Bosnian, Herzegovinian
Serb 40%, Muslim 38%, Croat 22% (est.)
#
Muslim 40%, Orthodox 31%, Catholic 15%, Protestant 4%, other 10%
Serbo-Croatian 99%
?
?
?
Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Republika Bosna i Hercegovina
Bosna i Hercegovina
emerging democracy
Sarajevo
109 districts (opstinas, singular - opstina) Banovici, Banja Luka, Bihac, Bijeljina, Bileca, Bosanska Dubica, Bosanska Gradiska, Bosanska Krupa, Bosanski Brod, Bosanski Novi, Bosanski Petrovac, Bosanski Samac, Bosansko Grahovo, Bratunac, Brcko, Breza, Bugojno, Busovaca, Cazin, Cajnice, Capljina, Celinac, Citluk, Derventa, Doboj, Donji Vakuf, Foca, Fojnica, Gacko, Glamoc, Gorazde, Gornji Vakuf, Gracanica, Gradacac, Grude, Han Pijesak, Jablanica, Jajce, Kakanj, Kalesija, Kalinovik, Kiseljak, Kladanj, Kljuc, Konjic, Kotor Varos, Kresevo, Kupres, Laktasi, Listica, Livno, Lopare, Lukavac, Ljubinje, Ljubuski, Maglaj, Modrica, Mostar, Mrkonjic-Grad, Neum, Nevesinje, Odzak, Olovo, Orasje, Posusje, Prijedor, Prnjavor, Prozor, (Pucarevo) Novi Travnik, Rogatica, Rudo, Sanski Most, Sarajevo-Centar, Sarajevo-Hadzici, Sarajevo-Ilidza, Sarajevo-Ilijas, Sarajevo-Novi Grad, Sarajevo-Novo, Sarajevo-Pale, Sarajevo-Stari Grad, Sarajevo-Trnovo, Sarajevo-Vogosca, Skender Vakuf, Sokolac, Srbac, Srebrenica, Srebrenik, Stolac, Sekovici, Sipovo, Teslic, Tesanj, Drvar, Duvno, Travnik, Trebinje, Tuzla, Ugljevik, Vares, Velika Kladusa, Visoko, Visegrad, Vitez, Vlasenica, Zavidovici, Zenica, Zvornik, Zepce, Zivinice
note: administrative reorganization is currently under negotiation with the assistance of international mediators; spellings not yet approved by the US Board on Geographic Names
Independence: NA April 1992 (from Yugoslavia)
#
?
NA
first promulgated in 1974 (under the Communists), amended 1989, 1990, and 1991; constitution of Muslim/Croat Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina ratified April 1994; under the Dayton Agreement signed 21 November 1995, the Muslim/Croat Federation and the Serb republic government agreed to accept new basic principles in their constitutions
based on civil law system
16 years of age, if employed; 18 years of age, universal
President Alija IZETBEGOVIC (since 20 December 1990) was elected by a collective (seven-member) presidency (of which he is a member); other members of the collective presidency are: Ejup GANIC (since NA November 1990), Nijaz DURAKOVIC (since NA October 1993), Stjepan KLJUJIC (since NA October 1993), Ivo KOMSIC (since NA October 1993), Mirko PEJANOVIC (since NA June 1992), Tatjana LJUJIC-MIJATOVIC (since NA December 1992); the collective presidency is elected from among the National Assembly with at least two members drawn from each of the three main ethnic groups
Prime Minister Hasan MURATOVIC (since 30 January 1996) was elected by the collective presidency and the National Assembly
#
there is an executive body of ministers with no formal name who are members of, and responsible to, the National Assembly
note: the president of the Muslim/Croat Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina is Kresimir ZUBAK (since 31 May 1994); Vice President Ejup GANIC (since 31 May 1994); elections for the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Presidency of the Republika Srpska will take place between six and nine months after the entry into force of the Dayton Agreement (14 December 1995)
#
bicameral National Assembly
Chamber of Municipalities (Vijece Opeina): elections last held November-December 1990 (next to be held NA); percent of vote by party NA; seats - (110 total) SDA 43, SDS BiH 38, HDZ BiH 23, Party of Democratic Changes 4, DSS 1, SPO 1
Chamber of Citizens (Vijece Gradanstvo): elections last held November-December 1990 (next to be held NA); percent of vote by party NA; seats - (130 total) SDA 43, SDS BiH 34, HDZ BiH 21, Party of Democratic Changes 15, SRSJ BiH 12, LBO 2, DSS 1, DSZ 1, LS 1
note: the new constitution signed as part of the Dayton agreement on 21 November 1995 provides for a new bicameral Parliamentary assembly which will consist of a House of Peoples with 15 delegates, two-thirds from the Muslim/Croat Federation and one-third from the Serbian republic, and a House of Representatives with 42 members, two-thirds from the Muslim/Croat Federation and one-third from the Serbian republic; elections are scheduled to be held six to nine months after the entry into force of the Dayton Agreement
#
Supreme Court; Constitutional Court
Civic Democratic Party (GDS), Ibrahim SPAHIC; Party for Bosnia, Haris SILAJDZIC; Croatian Democratic Union of BiH (HDZ), Bozo RAJIC; Croatian Peasants' Party of BiH (HSS), Stanko STISKOVIC; Independent Serbian Democratic Party (NSDS), Petar DODIK; Liberal Bosniak Organization (LBO), Muhamed FILIPOVIC; Liberal Party (LS), Rasim KADIC, president; Muslim-Bosniac Organization (MBO), Adil ZULFIKARPASIC; Party of Democratic Action (SDA), Alija IZETBEGOVIC; Republican Party of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Stjepan KLUJIC; Serb Democratic Party (SDS), Radovan KARADZIC, president; Serbian Civic Council (SGV), Mirko PEJANOVIC; Serbian Consultative Council, Ljubomir BERBEROVIC; Social Democratic Party (SDP - formerly the Democratic Party of Socialists (DSS)), Nijaz DURAKOVIC, president; Socialist Party of Republika Srpska, Zivko RADISIC; Union of Social Democrats (SSDB), Salim BESLAGIC; United Left of the Bosnian Serb Republic (ULRS), Mile IVOSEVIC; Serbian Renewal Movement (SPO), Milan TRIVUNCIC, note - this party participated in the 1990 elections, but may not exist now; Party of Democratic Changes, leader NA, note - this party participated in the 1990 elections, but may not exist now; Alliance of Reform Forces of Yugoslavia for Bosnia and Herzegovina (SRSJ BiH), Dr. Nenad KECMANOVIC, president, note - this party participated in the 1990 elections, but may not exist now; Democratic League of Greens (DSZ), Drazen PETROVIC, note - this party participated in the 1990 elections, but may not exist now; Yugoslav United Left (JUL), CAREVIC; Serb Liberal Party, Miodrag ZIVANOVIC; Serb Radical Party; Serb Patriotic Party, Slavko ZUPLJANIN; Serb Homeland Party
#
NA
#
CE (guest), CEI, ECE, FAO, ICAO, IFAD, ILO, IMO, Intelsat (nonsignatory user), Interpol, IOC, IOM (observer), ITU, NAM (guest), OSCE, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO
white with a large blue shield; the shield contains white fleurs-de-lis with a white diagonal band running from the upper hoist corner to the lower outer side
Bosnia and Herzegovina ranked next to The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia as the poorest republic in the old Yugoslav federation. Although agriculture has been almost all in private hands, farms have been small and inefficient, and the republic traditionally has been a net importer of food. Industry has been greatly overstaffed, one reflection of the rigidities of communist central planning and management. TITO had pushed the development of military industries in the republic with the result that Bosnia hosted a large share of Yugoslavia's defense plants. The bitter interethnic warfare in Bosnia caused production to plummet, unemployment and inflation to soar, and human misery to multiply. No economic statistics for 1992-95 are available, although output clearly has fallen substantially below the levels of earlier years and almost certainly is well below $1,000 per head. The country receives substantial amounts of humanitarian aid from the international community.
#
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
1026254
NA%
?
?
?
steel, coal, iron ore, lead, zinc, manganese, bauxite, vehicle assembly, textiles, tobacco products, wooden furniture, tank and aircraft assembly, domestic appliances, oil refining; much of capacity damaged or shut down (1995)
?
3.80
?
?
wheat, corn, fruits, vegetables; livestock
NA
?
NA
NA
?
NA
NA
?
ODA, $NA
?
1 dinar = 100 para; Croatian dinar used in Croat-held area, presumably to be replaced by new Croatian kuna; old and new Serbian dinars used in Serb-held area; hard currencies probably supplanting local currencies in areas held by Bosnian Government
?
calendar year
1021
1,021 km 1.435-m gauge (1991)
21168
11,436 km
9,732 km (1991 est.)
?
174
?
90
Bosanski Brod
?
?
?
?
24
?
3
3
1
7
?
?
1
9
?
?
727000
NA
no satellite earth stations
9
2
0
840000
6
1012094
Army
#
654326
524963
22902
?
?
@Botswana
0
0$Gaborone$-2472$2590$129000$
#
Groups of the Tswana people arrived in the area during the seventeenth
century, forcing the original inhabitants, the Bushmen, into the Kalahari
desert. The first Europeans appeared at the beginning of the 19th century
when christian missionary posts were set up. In 1885 the northern part of
Bechuanaland (now Botswana) was made a British protectorate at the request
of Tswana tribal chiefs. Botswana became an independent presidential
republic within the Commonwealth on 30 September 1966. The single
legislative body, the National Assembly, has 38 seats, 34 of which are
chosen by general election every five years. In addition there is a Council
of Chiefs, with 15 members, who advise on tribal matters.
#
RB
Southern Africa, north of South Africa
600370
585370
4013
Namibia 1,360 km, South Africa 1,840 km, Zimbabwe 813 km
0
?
?
?
?
?
short section of boundary with Namibia is indefinite; quadripoint with Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe is in disagreement; dispute with Namibia over uninhabited Kasikili (Sidudu) Island in Linyanti (Chobe) River remained unresolved in January 1996 and the parties have agreed to refer the matter to the ICJ
semiarid; warm winters and hot summers
predominately flat to gently rolling tableland; Kalahari Desert in southwest
junction of the Limpopo and Shashe Rivers 513 m
Tsodilo Hill 1,489 m
diamonds, copper, nickel, salt, soda ash, potash, coal, iron ore, silver
2
0
75
2
21
20
overgrazing, primarily as a result of the expansion of the cattle population; desertification; limited natural fresh water resources
periodic droughts; seasonal August winds blow from the west, carrying sand and dust across the country, which can obscure visibility
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - Desertification
1477630
42
317254
309617
54
374572
419991
4
22314
33882
1.63
33.34
17.01
0
1.03
1.02
0.89
0.66
0.94
54.20
46.01
44.94
47.11
4.26
Motswana (singular), Batswana (plural)
Motswana (singular), Batswana (plural)
Batswana 95%, Kalanga, Basarwa, and Kgalagadi 4%, white 1%
#
indigenous beliefs 50%, Christian 50%
English (official), Setswana
69.80
80.50
59.90
Republic of Botswana
Botswana
?
?
parliamentary republic
Gaborone
10 districts and four town councils*; Central, Chobe, Francistown*, Gaborone*,Ghanzi, Kgalagadi, Kgatleng, Kweneng, Lobatse*, Ngamiland, North-East, Selebi-Phikwe*, South-East, Southern,
Independence: 30 September 1966 (from UK)
#
?
Independence Day, 30 September (1966)
March 1965, effective 30 September 1966
based on Roman-Dutch law and local customary law; judicial review limited to matters of interpretation; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
21 years of age; universal
President Sir Ketumile MASIRE (since 13 July 1980) was elected for a five-year term by the National Assembly; election last held 15 October 1994 (next to be held October 1999); Vice President Festus MOGAE (since 9 March 1992) was appointed by the president
?
#
Cabinet was appointed by the president
#
bicameral Parliament
House of Chiefs: is a largely advisory 15-member body consisting of the chiefs of the eight principal tribes, four elected subchiefs, and three members selected by the other 12
National Assembly: elections last held 15 October 1994 (next to be held October 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (44 total, 40 elected and 4 appointed by the majority party) BDP 27, BNF 13
#
High Court; Court of Appeal
Botswana Democratic Party (BDP), Sir Ketumile MASIRE; Botswana National Front (BNF), Kenneth KOMA; Botswana People's Party (BPP), Knight MARIPE; Botswana Independence Party (BIP), Motsamai MPHO
#
?
#
ACP, AfDB, C, CCC, ECA, FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, ITU, NAM, OAU, SACU, SADC, UN, UN Security Council (temporary), UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WMO, WTrO
light blue with a horizontal white-edged black stripe in the center
The economy has historically been based on cattle raising and crops. Agriculture today provides a livelihood for more than 80% of the population but supplies only about 50% of food needs and accounts for only 5% of GDP. Subsistence farming and cattle raising predominate. The sector is plagued by erratic rainfall and poor soils. The driving force behind the rapid economic growth of the 1970s and 1980s has been the mining industry. This sector, mostly on the strength of diamonds, has gone from generating 25% of GDP in 1980 to 39% in 1994. The unemployment rate remains a problem at 21%. Hampered by a still sluggish diamond market in 1994 and 1995, GDP grew by only 1% in both years.
#
1
2940
4344
5
?
?
10
428000
220,000 formal sector employees; 14,300 are employed in various mines in South Africa; most others are engaged in cattle raising and subsistence agriculture (1992 est.)
21
1700
1990
diamonds, copper, nickel, coal, salt, soda ash, potash; livestock processing
Switzerland, UK, Southern African Customs Union (SACU),
1800.00
foodstuffs, vehicles and transport equipment, textiles, petroleum products
Switzerland, Southern African Customs Union (SACU), UK, US
691
ODA, $189 million (1993)
?
1 pula (P) = 100 thebe
2.83
1 April - 31 March
971
971 km 1.067-m gauge (1995)
11448
1,590 km
9,858 km (1988 est.)
?
?
?
?
none
?
?
?
?
81
1
1
9
1
22
?
?
3
44
?
?
19109
small system of open-wire lines, microwave radio relay links, and a few radiotelephone communication stations
microwave radio relay links to Zambia, Zimbabwe and South Africa; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean)
7
13
0
?
0
13800
Botswana Defense Force (includes Army and Air Wing), Botswana National Police
#
334177
175471
17088
199000000
5.20
@Bouvet Island
Norway
#
#
[N]
Southern Africa, island in the South Atlantic Ocean, south-southwest of the Cape of Good Hope (South Africa)
58
58
?
?
29.60
?
?
?
?
4
none
antarctic
volcanic; maximum elevation about 800 meters; coast is mostly inaccessible
Atlantic Ocean 0 m
unnamed location 780 m
none
0
0
0
0
100
0
NA
NA
NA
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
none
Bouvet Island
?
?
territory of Norway
none; administered from Oslo, Norway
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
#
?
#
?
?
#
?
#
?
the flag of Norway is used
no economic activity
Transportation
#
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
none; offshore anchorage only
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
@Brazil
0
0$Brasilia$-1578$-4792$1803000$
1$Manaus$-310$-6000$1089000$
1$Belem$-134$-4843$1190000$
1$Maceio$-962$-3572$527000$
1$Salvador de Bahia$-1257$-3850$2000000$
1$Fortaleza$-375$-3858$1763000$
1$SΓo Luis$-257$-4426$624000$
1$JoΓo Pessoa$-710$-3495$440000$
1$Recife$-806$-3495$1352000$
1$Teresina$-515$-4277$533000$
1$Natal$-578$-3522$578000$
1$Aracaju$-1092$-3707$398000$
1$Belo Horizonte$-1992$-4393$2339000$
1$Rio de Janeiro$-2289$-4328$10217000$
1$SΓo Paulo$-2356$-4665$15280000$
1$Curitiba$-2542$-4925$600000$
1$Porto Allegre$-3006$-5117$1371000$
1$GoiΓnia$-1672$-4931$1038000$
1$Campo Grande$-2042$-5467$435000$
#
Brazil was discovered on 22 April 1500 by the Portuguese Pedro Cabral. It
remained under Portuguese control until full independence was achieved in
1822. Economic and political problems led to a military coup in 1964. The
country remained under military dictatorship until 1985. Since 1979 the
Federative Republic of Brazil consists of 23 states, 1 federal district
around the capital, Brasilia, and 4 federal territories. In recent years,
Brazil has turned to agriculture to alleviate its economic problems. The
need for ever more agricultural land has led to the destruction of vast
areas of tropical rain forest.
In the German version of The WorldStack, its author, Henk Hodiamont, quoted
from a book by Jean-Pierre Dutilleux and pop-singer Sting, "The Fight for
the Rainforest". Being unable to quote from the English version of the book,
I offer this paraphrase of the German quote: The Amazone is dying. All over
the world rainforests are dying. The jungle with its abundance of plant- and
animal-life, with its innate and ancient cultures, is hanging in the
balance: as is therefore also the hope for new medicines and perhaps even
the health and well-being of our planet as a whole. Each minute of every day
roughly 243,000 sq.metres of rainforest are lost: the size of New York's
Central Park! In 1988 an area of jungle the size of Belgium was not only cut
down, but irreversibly destroyed! It is not panick-mongering to say that the
Amazone region could be turned into a desert with in a few decennia. Once
there was a similar rainforest in Africa. Today we refer to this area as the
Sahara?
#
BR
Eastern South America, bordering the Atlantic Ocean
8511965
8456510
14691
Argentina 1,224 km, Bolivia 3,400 km, Colombia 1,643 km, French Guiana 673 km, Guyana 1,119 km, Paraguay 1,290 km, Peru 1,560 km, Suriname 597 km, Uruguay 985 km, Venezuela 2,200 km
7491
24
200 nm
200
?
12
short section of the boundary with Paraguay, just west of Salto das Sete Quedas (Guaira Falls) on the Rio Parana, is in dispute; two short sections of boundary with Uruguay are in dispute - Arroio Invernada (Arroyo de la Invernada) area of the Rio Quarai (Rio Cuareim) and the islands at the confluence of the Rio Quarai and the Uruguay River
mostly tropical, but temperate in south
mostly flat to rolling lowlands in north; some plains, hills, mountains, and narrow coastal belt
deforestation in Amazon Basin destroys the habitat and endangers the existence of a multitude of plant and animal species indigenous to the area; air and water pollution in Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo, and several other large cities; land degradation and water pollution caused by improper mining activities
recurring droughts in northeast; floods and occasional frost in south
party to - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Desertification
162661214
31
25286278
24422897
65
52232435
53094724
4
3072720
4552160
1.16
20.80
9.19
0
1.05
1.04
0.98
0.68
0.98
55.30
61.62
56.67
66.81
2.34
Brazilian(s)
Brazilian
white (includes Portuguese, German, Italian, Spanish, Polish) 55%, mixed white and African 38%, African 6%, other (includes Japanese, Arab, Amerindian) 1%
#
Roman Catholic (nominal) 70%
Portuguese (official), Spanish, English, French
83.30
83.30
83.20
Federative Republic of Brazil
Brazil
Republica Federativa do Brasil
Brasil
federal republic
Brasilia
26 states (estados, singular - estado) and 1 federal district* (distrito federal); Acre, Alagoas, Amapa, Amazonas, Bahia, Ceara, Distrito Federal*, Espirito Santo, Goias, Maranhao, Mato Grosso, Mato Grosso do Sul, Minas Gerais, Para, Paraiba, Parana, Pernambuco, Piaui, Rio de Janeiro, Rio Grande do Norte, Rio Grande do Sul, Rondonia, Roraima, Santa Catarina, Sao Paulo, Sergipe, Tocantins
Independence: 7 September 1822 (from Portugal)
#
?
Independence Day, 7 September (1822)
5 October 1988
based on Roman codes; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
voluntary between 16 and 18 years of age and over 70; compulsory over 18 and under 70 years of age
President Fernando Henrique CARDOSO (since 1 January 1995) was elected for a four-year term by popular vote; election last held 3 October 1994; (next to be held October 1998); results - Fernando Henrique CARDOSO 53%, Luis Inacio LULA da Silva 26%, Eneas CARNEIRO 7%, Orestes QUERCIA 4%, Leonel BRIZOLA 3%, Espiridiao AMIN 3%; note - second direct presidential election since 1960; Vice President Marco MARCIEL (since NA)
?
#
Cabinet was appointed by the president
#
bicameral National Congress (Congresso Nacional)
Federal Senate (Senado Federal): election last held 3 October 1994 for two-thirds of Senate (next to be held October 1996 for one-third of the Senate); results - PMBD 28%, PFL 22%, PSDB 12%, PPR 7%, PDT 7%, PT 6%, PTB 6%, other 12%; seats - (81 total) seats by party NA
Chamber of Deputies (Camara dos Deputados): election last held 3 October 1994 (next to be held October 1998); results - PMDB 21%, PFL 18%, PDT 7%, PSDB 12%, PPR 10%, PTB 6%, PT 10%, other 16%; seats - (517 total) seats by party NA
note: party totals since Fall 1994 have changed considerably due to extensive party-switching
#
Supreme Federal Tribunal, judges are appointed for life by the Senate
National Reconstruction Party (PRN), Daniel TOURINHO, president; Brazilian Democratic Movement Party (PMDB), Paes DE ANDRADE, president; Liberal Front Party (PFL), Jorge BORNHAUSEN, president; Workers' Party (PT), Jose DIRCEU, president; Brazilian Workers' Party (PTB), Rodrigues PALMA, president; Democratic Labor Party (PDT), Leonel BRIZOLA, president; Brazilian Progressive Party (PPB), Espiridiao AMIN, president; Brazilian Social Democracy Party (PSDB), Artur DA TAVOLA, president; Popular Socialist Party (PPS), Roberto FREIRE, president; Communist Party of Brazil (PCdoB), Joao AMAZONAS, chairman; Liberal Party (PL), Alvaro VALLE, president
#
left wing of the Catholic Church and labor unions allied to leftist Workers' Party are critical of government's social and economic policies
green with a large yellow diamond in the center bearing a blue celestial globe with 27 white five-pointed stars (one for each state and the Federal District) arranged in the same pattern as the night sky over Brazil; the globe has a white equatorial band with the motto ORDEM E PROGRESSO (Order and Progress)
With its large and well-developed agricultural, mining, manufacturing, and service sectors, Brazil has South America's largest GDP by far and has the potential to become a major player in the world economy. Prior to the institution of a stabilization plan in mid-1994, stratospheric inflation rates had devastated the economy and discouraged foreign investment. Since then, tight monetary policy has apparently brought inflation under control - consumer prices increased by 23% in 1995 compared to more than 1,000% in 1994. At the same time, GDP growth slowed from 5.7% to 4.2% as credit was tightened and the steadily appreciating real encouraged imports while depressing export growth. The increased stability of the Brazilian economy allowed it to weather the fallout from the Mexican peso crisis relatively well, with foreign funds flowing in during the second half of 1995 to swell official foreign exchange reserves past the $50 billion mark. Stock market indices in Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, however, ended 26% lower in 1995. President CARDOSO remains committed to further reducing inflation in 1996 while boosting growth, but he faces key challenges. Servicing domestic debt has become dramatically more burdensome for both public and private sector entities because of very high real interest rates which are contributing to growing budget deficits and a surge in bankruptcies. Fiscal reforms, many of which require constitutional amendments, are proceeding at a slow pace through the Brazilian legislature; in their absence, the government is maintaining its strict monetary policy. Brazil's natural resources remain a major, long-run economic strength.
#
4.20
3620
588834
16
25
59
23
57000000
services 42%, agriculture 31%, industry 27%
5
58700.00
54900
textiles, shoes, chemicals, cement, lumber, iron ore, tin, steel, aircraft, motor vehicles and parts, other machinery and equipment
illicit producer of cannabis, coca cultivation in the Amazon region has diminished in recent years because of its low alkaloid content, mostly for domestic consumption; government has a large-scale eradication program to control cannabis; important transshipment country for Bolivian and Colombian cocaine headed for the US and Europe
46500
iron ore, soybean bran, orange juice, footwear, coffee, motor vehicle parts
EU 27.6%, Latin America 21.8%, US 17.4%, Japan 6.3% (1993)
49700
crude oil, capital goods, chemical products, foodstuffs, coal
US 23.3%, EU 22.5%, Middle East 13.0%, Latin America 11.8%, Japan 6.5% (1993)
94000
ODA, $107 million (1993)
?
1 real (R$) = 100 centavos
0.97
calendar year
27418
5,730 km 1.600-m gauge
194 km 1.440-m gauge
20,958 km 1.000-m gauge; 13 km 0.760-m gauge
1661850
142,919 km
1,518,931 km (1992 est.)
50000
2000
3804
1095
Belem, Fortaleza, Ilheus, Imbituba, Manaus, Paranagua, Porto Alegre, Recife, Rio de Janeiro, Rio Grande, Salvador, Santos, Vitoria
Brazilian Army, Brazilian Navy (includes Marines), Brazilian Air Force, Federal Police (paramilitary)
#
45091300
30330711
1734981
6736000000
1.10
@British Indian Ocean Territory
United Kingdom
#
#
Southern Asia, archipelago in the Indian Ocean, about one-half the way from Africa to Indonesia
60
60
?
?
698
?
?
?
200
3
the island of Diego Garcia is claimed by Mauritius
tropical marine; hot, humid, moderated by trade winds
flat and low (up to four meters in elevation)
Indian Ocean 0 m
unnamed location on Diego Garcia 15 m
coconuts, fish
0
0
0
0
100
0
NA
NA
NA
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
British Indian Ocean Territory
none
?
?
dependent territory of the UK
none
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
Queen ELIZABETH II (of the United Kingdom since 6 February 1952) is a hereditary monarch
Commissioner David Ross MACLENNAN (since NA 1994); Administrator Don CAIRNS (since NA); note - both reside in the UK
Diplomatic representation in US: none (dependent territory of the UK)
US diplomatic representation: none (dependent territory of the UK)
#
?
#
?
#
?
?
#
?
#
?
white with the flag of the UK in the upper hoist-side quadrant and six blue wavy horizontal stripes bearing a palm tree and yellow crown centered on the outer half of the flag
All economic activity is concentrated on the largest island of Diego Garcia, where joint UK-US defense facilities are located. Construction projects and various services needed to support the military installations are done by military and contract employees from the UK, Mauritius, the Philippines, and the US. There are no industrial or agricultural activities on the islands.
Electricity: provided by the US military
Transportation
Railways: 0 km
#
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
short stretch of paved road of NA km between port and airfield on Diego Garcia
NA km
?
?
?
?
Diego Garcia
?
?
?
?
1
1
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
NA
NA
1
1
0
?
1
?
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
@British Virgin Islands
United Kingdom
#
#
[GB]
Caribbean, between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, east of Puerto Rico
150
150
?
?
80
?
?
?
200
3
none
subtropical; humid; temperatures moderated by trade winds
limited natural fresh water resources (except for a few seasonal streams and springs on Tortola, most of the island's water supply comes from wells and rainwater catchment)
hurricanes and tropical storms (July to October)
NA
13195
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
1.29
20.19
6.05
-1.20
?
?
?
?
?
19.16
72.78
70.93
74.75
2.26
British Virgin Islander(s)
British Virgin Islander
black 90%, white, Asian
#
Protestant 86% (Methodist 45%, Anglican 21%, Church of God 7%, Seventh-Day Adventist 5%, Baptist 4%, Jehovah's Witnesses 2%, other 2%), Roman Catholic 6%, none 2%, other 6% (1981)
English (official)
97.80
?
?
none
British Virgin Islands
?
?
dependent territory of the UK
Road Town
none (dependent territory of the UK)
Independence: none (dependent territory of the UK)
#
?
Territory Day, 1 July
1 June 1977
English law
18 years of age; universal
Queen ELIZABETH II (of the United Kingdom since 6 February 1952), hereditary monarch, is represented by Governor David MACKILLIGIN (since NA June 1995) who was appointed by the queen
Chief Minister Ralph T. O'NEAL (since 15 May 1995; appointed after the death of former Chief Minister H. Lavity STOUTT) was appointed by the governor from among the members of the Legislative Council
#
Executive Council is appointed by the governor
#
unicameral
Legislative Council: election last held 20 February 1995 (next to be held NA February 2000); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (13 total) VIP 6, CCM 2, UP 2, independents 3
#
Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court
United Party (UP), Conrad MADURO; Virgin Islands Party (VIP); Concerned Citizens Movement (CCM), E. Walwyln BREWLEY
blue with the flag of the UK in the upper hoist-side quadrant and the Virgin Islander coat of arms centered in the outer half of the flag; the coat of arms depicts a woman flanked on either side by a vertical column of six oil lamps above a scroll bearing the Latin word VIGILATE (Be Watchful)
The economy, one of the most prosperous in the Caribbean, is highly dependent on tourism, which generates an estimated 45% of the national income. In 1985, the government began offering offshore registration to companies wishing to incorporate in the islands, and incorporation fees now generate substantial revenues. The adoption of a comprehensive insurance law in late 1994, which provides a blanket of confidentiality with regulated statutory gateways for investigation of criminal offenses, is expected to make the British Virgin Islands even more attractive to international business. Livestock raising is the most important agricultural activity; poor soils limit the islands' ability to meet domestic food requirements. Because of traditional close links with the US Virgin Islands, the British Virgin Islands have used the dollar as their currency since 1959.
#
2
18000
238
?
?
?
2.50
4911
NA
0
77.10
76.40
tourism, light industry, construction, rum, concrete block, offshore financial center
4
0.01
50
3148
fruits, vegetables; livestock, poultry; fish
?
2.70
rum, fresh fish, gravel, sand, fruits, animals
Virgin Islands (US), Puerto Rico, US
11.50
building materials, automobiles, foodstuffs, machinery
Virgin Islands (US), Puerto Rico, US
4.50
?
?
1 United States dollar (US$) = 100 cents
?
1 April - 31 March
?
106
NA km
NA km
?
?
?
?
Road Town
?
?
?
?
3
?
?
?
1
1
?
?
?
1
?
?
6291
NA
submarine cable to Bermuda
1
0
0
9000
1
4000
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
@Brunei
0
0$Bandar$490$11500$60000$
#
Brunei probably became a sultanate in the 14th century. It was a powerful
state in the 16th century with authority over all of the island of Borneo as
well as part of the Sulu Islands and the Philippines. It became a British
protectorate in 1888 and gained internal self-government in 1971. Brunei
became independent in 1984 with full sovereignty. The sultan has almost
absolute power and heads a ministerial council. There is also a legislative
council, with 21 members. Brunei is divided into 4 districts. (Brunei-Muara
Belait-Tutong-Temburong)
#
BRU
Southeastern Asia, bordering the South China Sea and Malaysia
5770
5270
381
Malaysia 381 km
161
?
?
200
?
12
may wish to purchase the Malaysian salient that divides the country; all of the Spratly Islands are claimed by China, Taiwan, and Vietnam; parts of them are claimed by Malaysia and the Philippines; in 1984, Brunei established an exclusive fishing zone that encompasses Louisa Reef, but has not publicly claimed the island
tropical; hot, humid, rainy
flat coastal plain rises to mountains in east; hilly lowland in west
South China Sea 0 m
Bukit Pagon 1,850 m
petroleum, natural gas, timber
1
1
1
79
18
10
NA
typhoons, earthquakes, and severe flooding are very rare
party to - Endangered Species, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Law of the Sea
299939
33
51266
49194
62
98806
88323
5
6843
5507
2.56
25.50
5.10
5.18
1.06
1.04
1.12
1.24
1.10
24.20
71.39
69.82
73.04
3.39
Bruneian(s)
Bruneian
Malay 64%, Chinese 20%, other 16%
#
Muslim (official) 63%, Buddhism 14%, Christian 8%, indigenous beliefs and other 15% (1981)
29 September 1959 (some provisions suspended under a State of Emergency since December 1962, others since independence on 1 January 1984)
based on Islamic law
none
Sultan and Prime Minister His Majesty Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan Haji HASSANAL Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah (since 5 October 1967) is a traditional Islamic monarch
?
#
Council of Cabinet Ministers is composed chiefly of members of the royal family, appointed and presided over by the sultan; deals with executive matters
Religious Council: is appointed by the sultan; advises on religious matters
Privy Council: is appointed by the sultan; deals with constitutional matters
the Council of Succession: is appointed by the sultan; determines the succession to the throne if the need arises
#
unicameral
Legislative Council (Majlis Masyuarat Megeri): elections last held in March 1962; in 1970 the Council was changed to an appointive body by decree of the sultan; an elected Legislative Council is being considered as part of constitutional reform, but elections are unlikely for several years
#
Supreme Court, chief justice and judges are sworn in by the sultan for a three-year term
Brunei United National Party (inactive), Anak HASANUDDIN, chairman; Brunei National Solidarity Party (the first legal political party and now banned), leader NA; Brunei Peoples Party (banned), leader NA
#
?
#
APEC, ASEAN, C, ESCAP, FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, IDB, IMF, IMO, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, ISO (correspondent), ITU, Mekong Group, NAM, OIC, UN, UNCTAD, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTrO
yellow with two diagonal bands of white (top, almost double width) and black starting from the upper hoist side; the national emblem in red is superimposed at the center; the emblem includes a swallow-tailed flag on top of a winged column within an upturned crescent above a scroll and flanked by two upraised hands
The economy is a mixture of foreign and domestic entrepreneurship, government regulation and welfare measures, and village tradition. It is almost totally supported by exports of crude oil and natural gas, with revenues from the petroleum sector accounting for more than 40% of GDP. Per capita GDP is among the highest in the Third World, and substantial income from overseas investment supplements domestic production. The government provides for all medical services and subsidizes food and housing.
#
2
17000
5099
3
42
55
2.40
119000
government 47.5%, production of oil, natural gas, services, and construction 41.9%, agriculture, forestry, and fishing 3.8% (1986)
4.80
2100
2100
petroleum, petroleum refining, liquefied natural gas, construction
12.90
0.38
1200
3971
rice, cassava (tapioca), bananas; water buffalo, pigs
Japan 50%, UK 19%, Thailand 10%, Singapore 9% (1994 est.)
1800.00
machinery and transport equipment, manufactured goods, food, chemicals
Singapore 29%, UK 19%, US 13%, Malaysia 9%, Japan 5% (1994 est.)
0
?
?
1 Bruneian dollar (B$) = 100 cents
1.42
calendar year
13
13 km 0.610-m gauge
2443
1,296 km
1,147 km (1993)
209
135
418
920
Bandar Seri Begawan, Kuala Belait, Muara, Seria, Tutong
7
348476
340635
?
2
1
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
1
?
3
76900
NA
satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Indian Ocean and 1 Pacific Ocean)
4
4
0
115000
1
78000
Land Forces, Navy, Air Force, Royal Brunei Police
#
83641
48559
2918
312000000
6.20
@Bulgaria
0
0$Sofia$4267$2331$1107000$
1$Plovdiv$4214$2473$340000$
1$Varna$4322$2793$307000$
#
The first Bulgarian Empire withstood the power of the Byzantine Empire from
681 to 1018 before becoming part of it from 1018 until 1186. The second
Bulgarian Empire dates from 1187, but the country fell under Turkish control
in 1396, a situation which continued for almost 500 years. Bulgaria became
autonomous in 1878, though still officially formed part of the Turkish
Empire. In 1908 Bulgaria declared itself to be an independent kingdom. The
monarchy was abolished in 1946 after a referendum. The first constitution
appeared in the following year. This was superseded in 1971, since when
almost all power has been in hands of the 400-seat National Assembly
(Narodno Sobranie) and the Bulgarian Communist Party has been the
driving-force of the country. Free elections were held for the first time in
June 1990. The CommunistParty, renamed the Bulgarian Socialist Party
retained control.
Bulgaria is divided into 28 districts (okrτzi) and 1161 municipal
authorities (obstina).
#
BG
Southeastern Europe, bordering the Black Sea, between Romania and Turkey
110910
110550
1808
Greece 494 km, The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia 148 km, Romania 608 km, Serbia and Montenegro 318 km (all with Serbia), Turkey 240 km
354
24
?
200
?
12
none
temperate; cold, damp winters; hot, dry summers
mostly mountains with lowlands in north and southeast
Black Sea 0 m
Musala 2,925 m
bauxite, copper, lead, zinc, coal, timber, arable land
34
3
18
35
10
10
air pollution from industrial emissions; rivers polluted from raw sewage, heavy metals, detergents; deforestation; forest damage from air pollution and resulting acid rain; soil contamination from heavy metals from metallurgical plants and industrial wastes
earthquakes, landslides
party to - Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Antarctic Treaty, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Biodiversity, Law of the Sea
8612757
17
769025
732119
68
2891197
2923440
15
561944
735032
0.46
8.33
13.55
9.81
1.05
1.05
0.99
0.76
0.96
15.70
71
67.07
75.12
1.17
Bulgarian(s)
Bulgarian
Bulgarian 85.3%, Turk 8.5%, Gypsy 2.6%, Macedonian 2.5%, Armenian 0.3%, Russian 0.2%, other 0.6%
#
Bulgarian Orthodox 85%, Muslim 13%, Jewish 0.8%, Roman Catholic 0.5%, Uniate Catholic 0.2%, Protestant, Gregorian-Armenian, and other 0.5%
Bulgarian, secondary languages closely correspond to ethnic breakdown
98
99
97
Republic of Bulgaria
Bulgaria
?
?
emerging democracy
Sofia
9 provinces (oblasti, singular - oblast); Burgas, Grad Sofiya, Khaskovo, Lovech, Montana, Plovdiv, Ruse, Sofiya, Varna
Independence: 22 September 1908 (from Ottoman Empire)
#
?
Independence Day, 3 March (1878)
adopted 12 July 1991
based on civil law system with Soviet law influence; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
18 years of age; universal and compulsory
President Zhelyu Mitev ZHELEV (since 1 August 1990, when he was elected by the National Assembly); president and vice president elected for five-year terms by popular vote; election last held NA January 1992 (next to be held NA 1997); results - Zhelyu ZHELEV elected by popular vote; Vice President (vacant)
Chairman of the Council of Ministers (Prime Minister) Zhan VIDENOV (since 25 January 1995) appointed by the president; Deputy Prime Ministers Doncho KONAKCHIEV (since 25 January 1995), Atanas PAPAKIZOV (since NA), Rumen GECHEV (since 25 January 1995), Svetoslav SHIVAROV (since 25 January 1995)
#
Council of Ministers elected by the National Assembly
#
unicameral
National Assembly (Narodno Sobranie): last held 18 December 1994 (next to be held NA 1997); results - BSP 43.5%, UDF 24.2%, PU 6.5%, MRF 5.4%, BBB 4.7%; seats - (240 total) BSP 125, UDF 69, PU 18, MRF 15, BBB 13
#
Supreme Court, chairman appointed for a seven-year term by the president; Constitutional Court, 12 justices appointed or elected for a nine-year term
Bulgarian Socialist Party (BSP), Zhan VIDENOV, chairman; Union of Democratic Forces (UDF - an alliance of pro-Democratic parties), Ivan KOSTOV; People's Union (PU), Stefan SAVOV; Movement for Rights and Freedoms (mainly ethnic Turkish party) (MRF), Ahmed DOGAN; Bulgarian Business Bloc (BBB), George GANCHEV
#
Democratic Alliance for the Republic (DAR); New Union for Democracy (NUD); Ecoglasnost; Podkrepa Labor Confederation; Fatherland Union; Bulgarian Communist Party (BCP); Confederation of Independent Trade Unions of Bulgaria (KNSB); Bulgarian Agrarian National Union - United (BZNS); Bulgarian Democratic Center; "Nikola Petkov" Bulgarian Agrarian National Union; Internal Macedonian Revolutionary Organization - Union of Macedonian Societies (IMRO-UMS); numerous regional, ethnic, and national interest groups with various agendas
three equal horizontal bands of white (top), green, and red; the national emblem formerly on the hoist side of the white stripe has been removed - it contained a rampant lion within a wreath of wheat ears below a red five-pointed star and above a ribbon bearing the dates 681 (first Bulgarian state established) and 1944 (liberation from Nazi control)
One of the poorest countries of central Europe, Bulgaria has continued the difficult process of moving from its old command economy to a modern, market-oriented economy. GDP rose a moderate 2.4% in 1995; inflation was down sharply; and unemployment fell from an estimated 16% to 12%. Despite this progress, structural reforms necessary to underpin macroeconomic stabilization were not pursued vigorously. Mass privatization of state-owned industry continued to move slowly, although privatization of small-scale industry, particularly in the retail and service sectors, accelerated. The Bulgarian economy will continue to grow in 1996, but economic reforms will remain politically difficult as the population has become weary of the process.
#
2.40
1340
11541
12
36
52
35
3100000
industry 41%, agriculture 18%, other 41% (1992)
11.90
3800.00
4400
machine building and metal working, food processing, chemicals, textiles, construction materials, ferrous and nonferrous metals
important transshipment point for Southwest Asian heroin and, to a lesser degree, South American cocaine transiting the Balkan route; limited producer of precursor chemicals
4200
machinery and equipment 12.8%; agriculture and food 21.9%; textiles and apparel 14%; metals and ores 19.7%; chemicals 16.9%; minerals and fuels 9.3%
former CEMA countries 35.7%; OECD 46.6% (EU 33.5%); Arab countries 5.1%; other 12.6%
4000
fuels, minerals, and raw materials 30.1%; machinery and equipment 23.6%; textiles and apparel 11.6%; agricultural products 10.8%; metals and ores 6.8%; chemicals 12.3%; other 4.8%
former CEMA countries 40.3%; OECD 48.3% (EU 34.1%); Arab countries 1.7%; other 9.7%
10400
ODA, $39 million (1993)
?
1 lev (Lv) = 100 stotinki
70.50
calendar year
4292
4,047 km 1.435-m gauge (2,650 km electrified; 917 double track)
extensive but antiquated transmission system of coaxial cable and microwave radio relay; telephone service is available in most villages
direct dialing to 36 countries; satellite earth stations - 1 Intersputnik (Atlantic Ocean Region); Intelsat available through a Greek earth station
20
15
0
?
29
2100000
Army, Navy, Air and Air Defense Forces, Border Troops, Internal Troops
#
2155332
1797318
64568
352000000
2.50
@Burkina
0
0$Ouagadougou$1233$-167$590000$
1$Bobo-Dioulasso$1114$-422$300000$
#
The Mossi tribe ruled the area from the 11th century until defeated by the
Mali and Songhai empires. French control came in 1896. Formerly part of
French West Africa, Upper Volta became independent on 5 August 1960. In
1984, the name was changed to Burkina Faso. The 1977 constitution, the
functions of the legislative house (National Assembly with 57 seats) and all
political parties have been suspended since 1980, following a military coup.
Since the end of August 1985, all laws have been passed by decree.
There are 30 provinces in Burkina Faso.
#
BF
Western Africa, north of Ghana
274200
273800
3192
Benin 306 km, Ghana 548 km, Cote d'Ivoire 584 km, Mali 1,000 km, Niger 628 km, Togo 126 km
0
?
?
?
?
?
following mutual acceptance of an International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruling in December 1986 on their international boundary dispute, Burkina Faso and Mali are proceeding with boundary demarcation, including the tripoint with Niger
tropical; warm, dry winters; hot, wet summers
mostly flat to dissected, undulating plains; hills in west and southeast
Black Volta River 200 m
Tena Kourou 749 m
manganese, limestone, marble; small deposits of gold, antimony, copper, nickel, bauxite, lead, phosphates, zinc, silver
10
0
37
26
27
160
recent droughts and desertification severely affecting agricultural activities, population distribution, and the economy; overgrazing; soil degradation; deforestation
recurring droughts
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Marine Life Conservation, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban
10623323
48
2569806
2537106
49
2444601
2738726
3
145479
187605
2.53
47.02
19.99
-1.74
1.03
1.01
0.89
0.78
0.94
117.80
43.21
43.46
42.95
6.80
Burkinabe (singular and plural)
Burkinabe
Mossi about 24%, Gurunsi, Senufo, Lobi, Bobo, Mande, Fulani
#
indigenous beliefs 40%, Muslim 50%, Christian (mainly Roman Catholic) 10%
French (official), tribal languages belonging to Sudanic family, spoken by 90% of the population
based on French civil law system and customary law
none
President Captain Blaise COMPAORE (since 15 October 1987) elected for a seven-year term by popular vote; election last held NA December 1991 (next to be held NA 1998)
Prime Minister Roch KABORE (since NA March 1994) appointed by the president
#
Council of Ministers appointed by the president
#
unicameral
Assembly of People's Deputies: elections last held 24 May 1992 (next to be held NA 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (107 total), ODP-MT 78, CNPP-PSD 12, RDA 6, ADF 4, other 7
note: the current law also provides for a second consultative chamber, which has not been formally constituted
#
Appeals Court
Organization for People's Democracy - Labor Movement (ODP-MT), ruling party, Secretary General Simon COMPAORE; National Convention of Progressive Patriots-Social Democratic Party (CNPP-PSD), Moussa BOLY; African Democratic Rally (RDA), Gerard Kango OUEDRAOGO; Alliance for Democracy and Federation (ADF), Amadou Michel NANA
#
committees for the defense of the revolution; watchdog/political action groups throughout the country in both organizations and communities
two equal horizontal bands of red (top) and green with a yellow five-pointed star in the center; uses the popular pan-African colors of Ethiopia
One of the poorest countries in the world, Burkina Faso has a high population density and a high population growth rate, few natural resources, and a fragile soil. Economic development is hindered by a poor communications network within a landlocked country. Agriculture is mainly subsistence farming. Industry remains dominated by unprofitable government-controlled corporations. Following the Communaute Financiere Africaine currency devaluation on 12 January 1994, exports appear to have risen, but no official figures have been released yet. The upswing apparently continued in 1995, with growth perhaps at 4%. The government has updated its development program in conjunction with international agencies, yet even with the best of plans, the government faces formidable problems on all sides.
#
4
230
2443
32
24
44
5
?
agriculture 80%, industry 15%, commerce, services, and government 5%
1 Communaute Financiere Africaine franc (CFAF) = 100 centimes
500.56
calendar year
622
622 km 1.000-m gauge (517 km Ouagadougou to Cote d'Ivoire border and 105 km opened in 1993 from Ouagadougou to Kaya)
16400
1,280 km
15,120 km (1987 est.)
?
?
?
?
none
?
?
?
?
23
1
1
?
?
8
?
?
3
10
?
?
21000
microwave radio relay, open wire, and radiotelephone communication stations
satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean)
2
1
0
?
2
49000
Army, Air Force, National Gendarmerie, National Police, People's Militia
#
2149485
1101184
?
104000000
6.40
@Burma
0
0$Rangoon$1678$9617$3000000$
1$Mandalay$2195$9607$532000$
1$Moulmein$1650$9767$220000$
#
Settlers from Tibet in the 8th century formed the basis of what was later to
become the Burmese people. From 1272 until the 16th century, the country
formed part of the Chinese-Mongolian empire. The British made Burma part of
the Indian empire in 1886. After numerous nationalist rebel lions, the
Government of Burma Act of 1935 allowed for a level of internal
self-government from 1937. The Japanese occupation led to independence in
1943. This independence was later ratified by the British and Burma left the
Commonwealth with full independence on 1 January 1948. Political instability
led to a military take-over by General U Ne Win in 1962. The military regime
founded the Burmese Socialist Program Party (BSPP), the only legal party
since 28 March 1962. The new single-party constitution was confirmed by
referendum from 15 to 31 December 1973 and became official on 4 January
1974. This single-party people's republic has one legislative house, the
People's Assembly, with 475 seats, elected every 4 years. First elections
took place in January and February of 1974. New laws regarding political
parties came into force in September 1988.
Burma has 4 Divisions and 7 States.
#
BUR
Southeastern Asia, bordering the Andaman Sea and the Bay of Bengal, between Bangladesh and Thailand
678500
657740
5876
Bangladesh 193 km, China 2,185 km, India 1,463 km, Laos 235 km, Thailand 1,800 km
1930
24
200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
200
?
12
none
tropical monsoon; cloudy, rainy, hot, humid summers (southwest monsoon, June to September); less cloudy, scant rainfall, mild temperatures, lower humidity during winter (northeast monsoon, December to April)
central lowlands ringed by steep, rugged highlands
Andaman Sea 0 m
Hkakabo Razi 5,881 m
petroleum, timber, tin, antimony, zinc, copper, tungsten, lead, coal, some marble, limestone, precious stones, natural gas
15
1
1
49
34
10180
deforestation; industrial pollution of air, soil, and water; inadequate sanitation and water treatment contribute to disease
destructive earthquakes and cyclones; flooding and landslides common during rainy season (June to September); periodic droughts
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83; signed, but not ratified - Law of the Sea, Tropical Timber 94
45975625
37
8637102
8308282
59
13577232
13571312
4
853403
1028294
1.84
30.01
11.66
0
1.06
1.04
1
0.83
1.01
80.70
56.14
54.46
57.92
3.83
Burmese (singular and plural)
Burmese
Burman 68%, Shan 9%, Karen 7%, Rakhine 4%, Chinese 3%, Mon 2%, Indian 2%, other 5%
#
Buddhist 89%, Christian 4% (Baptist 3%, Roman Catholic 1%), Muslim 4%, animist beliefs 1%, other 2%
Burmese, minority ethnic groups have their own languages
83.10
88.70
77.70
Union of Burma
Burma
Pyidaungzu Myanma Naingngandaw (translated by the US Government as Union of Myanma and by the Burmese as Union of Myanmar)
3 January 1974 (suspended since 18 September 1988); national convention started on 9 January 1993 to draft a new constitution; chapter headings and three of 15 sections have been approved
does not accept compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
18 years of age; universal
Prime Minister and Chairman of the State Law and Order Restoration Council Gen. THAN SHWE (since 23 April 1992)
?
#
?
#
People's Assembly (Pyithu Hluttaw): election last held 27 May 1990, but Assembly never convened; results - NLD 80%; seats - (485 total) NLD 396, NUP 10, other 79
#
limited; remnants of the British-era legal system in place, but there is no guarantee of a fair public trial; the judiciary is not independent of the executive
Union Solidarity and Development Association (USDA; pro-regime), THAN AUNG, secretary; National Unity Party (NUP), pro-regime, THA KYAW; National League for Democracy (NLD), AUNG SAN SUU KYI, general secretary; and eight minor legal parties
#
National Coalition Government of the Union of Burma (NCGUB), headed by the elected prime minister SEIN WIN - consists of individuals legitimately elected to the People's Assembly but not recognized by the military regime; the group fled to a border area and joined with insurgents in December 1990 to form a parallel government; Kachin Independence Army (KIA); United Wa State Army (UWSA); Karen National Union (KNU); several Shan factions, including the Mong Tai Army (MTA); All Burma Student Democratic Front (ABSDF)
red with a blue rectangle in the upper hoist-side corner bearing, all in white, 14 five-pointed stars encircling a cogwheel containing a stalk of rice; the 14 stars represent the 14 administrative divisions
Burma has a mixed economy with about 75% private activity, mainly in agriculture, light industry, and transport, and with about 25% state-controlled activity, mainly in energy, heavy industry, and foreign trade. Government policy in the last seven years, 1989-95, has aimed at revitalizing the economy after three decades of tight central planning. Thus, private activity has markedly increased; foreign investment has been encouraged, so far with moderate success; and efforts continue to increase the efficiency of state enterprises. Published estimates of Burma's foreign trade are greatly understated because of the volume of black market trade. A major ongoing problem is the failure to achieve monetary and fiscal stability. Although Burma remains a poor Asian country, its rich resources furnish the potential for substantial long-term increases in income, exports, and living standards.
#
6.80
900
41378
60
10
30
38
16007000.00
agriculture 65.2%, industry 14.3%, trade 10.1%, government 6.3%, other 4.1% (FY88/89 est.)
?
5300
10000
agricultural processing; textiles and footwear; wood and wood products; petroleum refining; copper, tin, tungsten, iron; construction materials; pharmaceuticals; fertilizer
world's largest illicit producer of opium (2,340 metric tons in 1995) and source for over 60% of US heroin imports; minor producer of cannabis for the international drug trade; Rangoon's antinarcotic programs hindered by lack of resources, government commitment; growing role in methamphetamine production for regional consumption
879
pulses and beans, teak, rice, hardwood
Singapore, China, Thailand, India, Hong Kong
1500
machinery, transport equipment, construction materials, food products, consumer goods
soil erosion as a result of overgrazing and the expansion of agriculture into marginal lands; deforestation (little forested land remains because of uncontrolled cutting of trees for fuel); habitat loss threatens wildlife populations
flooding, landslides
party to - Endangered Species; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Desertification, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban
5943057
47
1404375
1398228
50
1454545
1527644
3
62955
95310
1.54
43.02
15.15
-12.47
1.03
1
0.95
0.66
0.97
102.20
49.33
48.28
50.42
6.55
Burundian(s)
Burundi
Africans: Hutu (Bantu) 85%, Tutsi (Hamitic) 14%, Twa (Pygmy) 1%. non-Africans: Europeans 3,000, South Asians 2,000
#
Christian 67% (Roman Catholic 62%, Protestant 5%), indigenous beliefs 32%, Muslim 1%
Kirundi (official), French (official), Swahili (along Lake Tanganyika and in the Bujumbura area)
Independence: 1 July 1962 (from UN trusteeship under Belgian administration)
#
?
Independence Day, 1 July (1962)
13 March 1992; provides for establishment of a plural political system
based on German and Belgian civil codes and customary law; does not accept compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
NA years of age; universal adult
President Sylvestre NTIBANTUNGANYA (acting president from 8 April 1994 to 30 September 1994, president since 1 October 1994); note - NTIBANTUNGANYA, in his capacity as President of the National Assembly, became acting president upon the death of President Cyprien NTARYAMIRE in an airplane crash on 6 April 1994; NTIBANTUNGANYA was sworn in on 1 October 1994 as president by the "Convention on Government" to serve a four year transitional term
Prime Minister Antoine NDUWAYO (since February 1995)
#
Council of Ministers; appointed by prime minister
#
unicameral
National Assembly (Assemblee Nationale): election last held 29 June 1993 (next to be held NA); results - FRODEBU 71%, UPRONA 21.4%; seats - (81 total) FRODEBU 65, UPRONA 16; other parties won too small shares of the vote to win seats in the assembly
#
Supreme Court (Cour Supreme)
Unity for National Progress (UPRONA); Burundi Democratic Front (FRODEBU); Organization of the People of Burundi (RBP); Socialist Party of Burundi (PSB); People's Reconciliation Party (PRP); opposition parties, legalized in March 1992, include Burundi African Alliance for the Salvation (ABASA); Rally for Democracy and Economic and Social Development (RADDES); and Party for National Redress (PARENA)
divided by a white diagonal cross into red panels (top and bottom) and green panels (hoist side and outer side) with a white disk superimposed at the center bearing three red six-pointed stars outlined in green arranged in a triangular design (one star above, two stars below)
Burundi is a landlocked, resource-poor country in an early stage of economic development. The economy is predominately agricultural with roughly 90% of the population dependent on subsistence agriculture. Its economic health depends on the coffee crop, which accounts for 80% of foreign exchange earnings. The ability to pay for imports therefore rests largely on the vagaries of the climate and the international coffee market. As part of its economic reform agenda, launched in February 1991 with IMF and World Bank support, Burundi is trying to diversify its agricultural exports, attract foreign investment in industry, and modernize government budgetary practices. Since October 1993 the nation has suffered from massive ethnic-based violence which has resulted in the death of perhaps 100,000 persons and the displacement of a million others; production has fallen sharply, and an impoverished and disorganized government can hardly implement these needed reform programs.
#
2.70
150
891
54.10
16.80
29.10
10
1900000
agriculture 93.0%, government 4.0%, industry and commerce 1.5%, services 1.5%
?
318
326
light consumer goods such as blankets, shoes, soap; assembly of imported components; public works construction; food processing
capital goods 31%, petroleum products 15%, foodstuffs, consumer goods
EC 45%, Asia 29%, US 2%
1050
ODA, $NA
?
1 Burundi franc (FBu) = 100 centimes
268.13
calendar year
?
14473
1,028 km
13,445 km (1992 est.)
?
?
?
?
Bujumbura
?
?
?
?
3
1
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
2
?
?
7200
sparse system of open wire, radiotelephone communications, and low-capacity microwave radio relay
satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean)
2
2
0
?
1
4500
Army (includes naval and air units), paramilitary Gendarmerie
#
1312458
683073
67990
25000000
2.60
@Cambodia
0
0$Phnom Penh$1156$10492$1500000$
#
Early kingdoms in the region date from the 1st century AD. These culminated
with the Khmer Empire, flourishing from the 9th until the 13th centuries and
including present-day Thailand, Kampuchea (Cambodia), Laos, and southern
Vietnam. The surrounding areas were gradually lost to Siam and Vietnam, and
Cambodia became part of French Indochina in 1887. Its independence as a
monarchy was declared in 1949 and recognized by France in 1953. It became a
republic in 1970. Civil war from 1970 until 1975 ended in victory for the
the communists, the Khmer Rouge. The country was invaded by Vietnamese
troops in 1978 and a new government established. The Khmer Rouge continues
guerilla activities.
#
K
Southeastern Asia, bordering the Gulf of Thailand, between Thailand and Vietnam
181040
176520
2572
Laos 541 km, Thailand 803 km, Vietnam 1,228 km
443
24
200 nm
200
?
12
offshore islands and sections of the boundary with Vietnam are in dispute; maritime boundary with Vietnam not defined; parts of border with Thailand in dispute; maritime boundary with Thailand not clearly defined
tropical; rainy, monsoon season (May to November); dry season (December to April); little seasonal temperature variation
mostly low, flat plains; mountains in southwest and north
Gulf of Thailand 0 m
Phnum Aoral 1,810 m
timber, gemstones, some iron ore, manganese, phosphates, hydropower potential
16
1
3
76
4
920
logging activities throughout the country and strip mining for gems in the western region along the border with Thailand are resulting in habitat loss and declining biodiversity (in particular, destruction of mangrove swamps threatens natural fisheries); deforestation; soil erosion; in rural areas, a majority of the population does not have access to potable water
monsoonal rains (June to November); flooding; occasional droughts
party to - Marine Life Conservation, Ship Pollution; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Desertification, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Tropical Timber 94
10861218
45
2505998
2432620
51
2579986
3007838
4
143759
191017
2.77
43.50
15.78
0
1.05
1.03
0.86
0.75
0.93
107.80
49.86
48.39
51.39
5.81
Cambodian(s)
Cambodian
Khmer 90%, Vietnamese 5%, Chinese 1%, other 4%
#
Theravada Buddhism 95%, other 5%
Khmer (official), French
35
48
22
Kingdom of Cambodia
Cambodia
Preahreacheanachakr Kampuchea
Kampuchea
multiparty liberal democracy under a constitutional monarchy established in September 1993
Phnom Penh
21 provinces (khett, singular and plural); Banteay Mean Cheay, Batdambang, Kampong Cham, Kampong Chhnang, Kampong Spoe, Kampong Thum, Kampot, Kandal, Kaoh Kong, Kracheh, Mondol Kiri, Phnum Penh, Pouthisat, Preah Seihanu (Sihanoukville), Preah Vihear, Prey Veng, Rotanah Kiri, Siem Reab, Stoeng Treng, Svay Rieng, Takev
note: a new province of Otdar Mean Cheay may have been created from parts of Banteay Mean Cheay and Siem Reab
Independence: 9 November 1949 (from France)
#
?
Independence Day, 9 November 1949
promulgated 21 September 1993
currently being defined
18 years of age; universal
King Norodom SIHANOUK (reinstated 24 September 1993) is a constitutional monarch
power shared between First Prime Minister Prince Norodom RANARIDDH (since NA 1993) and Second Prime Minister HUN SEN (since NA 1993) who were appointed by the king
#
Council of Ministers appointed by the king
#
unicameral
National Assembly: members elected for five-year terms; elections last held 23 May 1993 (next to be held NA 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (120 total) FUNCINPEC 58, CPP 51, Buddhist Liberal Democratic Party 10, Molinaka 1
note: the May 1993 elections were for the Constituent Assembly which became the National Assembly after the new constitution was promulgated in September 1993
#
Supreme Court provided for by the constitution has not yet been established and the future judicial system is yet to be defined by law
National United Front for an Independent, Neutral, Peaceful, and Cooperative Cambodia (FUNCINPEC), Prince NORODOM RANARIDDH; Cambodian Pracheachon Party or Cambodian People's Party (CPP), CHEA SIM; Buddhist Liberal Democratic Party, SON SANN faction; Buddhist Liberal Democratic Party, IENG MOULY faction; Democratic Kampuchea (DK, also known as the Khmer Rouge), KHIEU SAMPHAN; Molinaka, PROM NEAKAREACH
three horizontal bands of blue (top), red (double width), and blue with a white three-towered temple representing Angkor Wat outlined in black in the center of the red band
The Cambodian economy - virtually destroyed by decades of war - is slowly recovering. Government leaders are moving toward restoring fiscal and monetary discipline and have established good working relations with international financial institutions. Growth, starting from a low base, has been strong in 1991-95. Despite such positive developments, the reconstruction effort faces many tough challenges because of the persistence of internal political divisions and the related lack of confidence of foreign investors. Rural Cambodia, where 90% of about 9.5 million Khmer live, remains mired in poverty. The almost total lack of basic infrastructure in the countryside will hinder development and will contribute to a growing imbalance in growth between urban and rural areas over the near term. Moreover, the government's lack of experience in administering economic and technical assistance programs and rampant corruption among officials will slow the growth of critical public sector investment. The decline of inflation from the 1992 rate of more than 50% is one of the bright spots.
key transshipment country for Golden Triangle heroin en route to West; possibly becoming money-laundering center; high-level narcotics-related corruption in government, military, and police; possible small-scale opium, heroin, and amphetamine production; large producer of cannabis
240.70
timber, rubber, soybeans, sesame
Singapore, Japan, Thailand, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia
630.50
cigarettes, construction materials, petroleum products, machinery, motor vehicles
Singapore, Vietnam, Japan, Australia, Hong Kong, Indonesia
383
ODA, $NA
?
1 new riel (CR) = 100 sen
2585
calendar year
603
603 km 1.000-m gauge
34100
3,000 km
31,100 km (1994 est.)
3700
?
?
?
Kampong Saom (Sihanoukville), Kampot, Krong Kaoh Kong, Phnom Penh
5
17451
18280
?
14
?
2
2
2
?
?
?
1
7
?
2
7000
NA
landline international service limited to Vietnam and other adjacent countries; satellite earth station - 1 Intersputnik (Indian Ocean Region)
1
0
0
?
1
70000
Khmer Royal Armed Forces (KRAF): created in 1993 by the merger of the Cambodian People's Armed Forces and the two noncommunist resistance armies; note - the KRAF is also known as the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces (RCAF)
Resistance forces: National Army of Democratic Kampuchea (Khmer Rouge)
#
2336606
1302234
79514
85000000
1.40
@Cameroon
0
0$YaoundΘ$385$1152$1000000$
1$Douala$405$969$1500000$
3$Cameroon$475$892$4097$
#
Little is known of the early history of Cameroon. Its coast was visited in
1472 by the Portuguese navigator, Fernπo do P∙. The estuary of the river
Wouri was named Rio dos Camaroφs, later adopted as the name of the whole of
the country. Germany established the colony of Kamerun in 1884. In 1918 the
area was divided: the western part became British and the eastern became
French. French Cameroon became independent on 1 January 1960. Part of
British Cameroon joined Nigeria in 1961, the other part joining Cameroon.
Head of state and the government is the president, elected every 5 years.
The president holds executive power and selects the prime-minister and the
cabinet. Legislative power rests with the National Assembly of 120 seats,
also elected every 5 years.
Cameroon is divided into 7 provinces and 37 departments.
#
CAM
Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Equatorial Guinea and Nigeria
475440
469440
4591
Central African Republic 797 km, Chad 1,094 km, Congo 523 km, Equatorial Guinea 189 km, Gabon 298 km, Nigeria 1,690 km
402
?
?
?
?
50
demarcation of international boundaries in vicinity of Lake Chad, the lack of which led to border incidents in the past, is completed and awaits ratification by Cameroon, Chad, Niger, and Nigeria; dispute with Nigeria over land and maritime boundaries in the vicinity of the Bakasi Peninsula has been referred to the International Court of Justice
varies with terrain, from tropical along coast to semiarid and hot in north
diverse, with coastal plain in southwest, dissected plateau in center, mountains in west, plains in north
Atlantic Ocean 0 m
Fako 4,095 m
petroleum, bauxite, iron ore, timber, hydropower potential
13
2
18
54
13
280
water-borne diseases are prevalent; deforestation; overgrazing; desertification; poaching; overfishing
recent volcanic activity with release of poisonous gases
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection, Tropical Timber 83; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Nuclear Test Ban, Tropical Timber 94
14261557
46
3295924
3266429
51
3602037
3627625
3
213176
256366
2.89
42.49
13.56
0
1.03
1.01
0.99
0.83
1
78.70
52.60
51.55
53.68
5.99
Cameroonian(s)
Cameroonian
Cameroon Highlanders 31%, Equatorial Bantu 19%, Kirdi 11%, Fulani 10%, Northwestern Bantu 8%, Eastern Nigritic 7%, other African 13%, non-African less than 1%
#
indigenous beliefs 51%, Christian 33%, Muslim 16%
24 major African language groups, English (official), French (official)
10 provinces; Adamaoua, Centre, Est, Extreme-Nord, Littoral, Nord, Nord-Ouest, Ouest, Sud, Sud-Ouest
Independence: 1 January 1960 (from UN trusteeship under French administration)
#
?
National Day, 20 May (1972)
20 May 1972
based on French civil law system, with common law influence; does not accept compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
21 years of age; universal
President Paul BIYA (since 6 November 1982) elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 11 October 1992 (next to be held NA October 1997); results - President Paul BIYA reelected with about 40% of the vote amid widespread allegations of fraud; SDF candidate John FRU NDI got 36% of the vote; UNDP candidate Bello Bouba MAIGARI got 19% of the vote
Prime Minister Simon ACHIDI ACHU (since 9 April 1992) appointed by the president
#
Cabinet appointed by the president
#
unicameral
National Assembly (Assemblee Nationale): elections last held 1 March 1992 (next to be held NA March 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats (180 total) CPDM 88, UNDP 68, UPC 18, MDR 6
#
Supreme Court
Cameroon People's Democratic Movement (CPDM) (government-controlled and the only party until legalization of opposition parties in 1990), Paul BIYA, president
major opposition parties: National Union for Democracy and Progress (UNDP); Social Democratic Front (SDF); Cameroonian Democratic Union (UDC); Union of Cameroonian Populations (UPC); Movement for the Defense of the Republic (MDR)
#
Alliance for Change (FAC), Cameroon Anglophone Movement (CAM)
three equal vertical bands of green (hoist side), red, and yellow with a yellow five-pointed star centered in the red band; uses the popular pan-African colors of Ethiopia
Because of its offshore oil resources and favorable agricultural conditions, Cameroon has one of the best-endowed, most diversified primary commodity economies in sub-Saharan Africa. Still, it faces many of the serious problems facing other underdeveloped countries, such as political instability, a top-heavy civil service, and a generally unfavorable climate for business enterprise. The development of the oil sector led to rapid economic growth between 1970 and 1985. Growth came to an abrupt halt in 1986, precipitated by steep declines in the prices of major exports: coffee, cocoa, and petroleum. Export earnings were cut by almost one-third, and inefficiencies in fiscal management were exposed. In 1990-93, with support from the IMF and World Bank, the government began to introduce reforms designed to spur business investment, increase efficiency in agriculture, and recapitalize the nation's banks. Political instability, following suspect elections in 1992, brought IMF/WB structural adjustment to a halt; currently Cameroon receives only minimal assistance from those Bretton Woods institutions. Although the 50% devaluation of the currency of 12 January 1994 improved the potential for export growth, mismanagement remains the main barrier to economic improvement. The devaluation led to a spurt in inflation, to 48% in 1994, but inflation moderated in 1995. Progress toward privatization of remaining state industry remains slow.
#
1.80
630
8985
29
24
47
48
?
agriculture 74.4%, industry and transport 11.4%, other services 14.2% (1983)
?
1600.00
2300
petroleum production and refining, food processing, light consumer goods, textiles, lumber
air pollution and resulting acid rain severely affecting lakes and damaging forests; metal smelting, coal-burning utilities, and vehicle emissions impacting on agricultural and forest productivity; ocean waters becoming contaminated due to agricultural, industrial, mining, and forestry activities
continuous permafrost in north is a serious obstacle to development; cyclonic storms form east of the Rocky Mountains, a result of the mixing of air masses from the Arctic, Pacific, and North American interior, and produce most of the country's rain and snow
party to - Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Desertification, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Law of the Sea, Tropical Timber 94
28820671
21
3032458
2889603
67
9663955
9660648
12
1501542
2072465
1.06
13.33
7.17
4.47
1.05
1.05
1
0.72
0.97
6.10
79.07
75.67
82.65
1.81
Canadian(s)
Canadian
British Isles origin 40%, French origin 27%, other European 20%, indigenous Indian and Eskimo 1.5%, other, mostly Asian 11.5%
#
Roman Catholic 45%, United Church 12%, Anglican 8%, other 35% (1991)
English (official), French (official)
97
?
?
none
Canada
?
?
confederation with parliamentary democracy
Ottawa
10 provinces and 2 territories*; Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland, Northwest Territories*, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, Quebec, Saskatchewan, Yukon Territory*
Independence: 1 July 1867 (from UK)
#
?
Canada Day, 1 July (1867)
amended British North America Act 1867 patriated to Canada 17 April 1982; charter of rights and unwritten customs
based on English common law, except in Quebec, where civil law system based on French law prevails; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with reservations
18 years of age; universal
Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952), a hereditary monarch, is represented by Governor General Romeo LeBLANC (since 8 February 1995), who was appointed by the queen
Prime Minister Jean CHRETIEN (since 4 November 1993) was appointed by the governor general; on 25 October 1993; Deputy Prime Minister Sheila COPPS (since NA); note - the prime minister is the leader of the political party commanding a majority in the House of Commons
#
Federal Ministry was chosen by the prime minister from members of his own party sitting in Parliament
#
bicameral Parliament (Parlement)
Senate (Senat): consisting of a body whose members are appointed to serve until 75 years of age by the governor general and selected on the advice of the prime minister; its normal limit is 104 senators
House of Commons (Chambre des Communes): elections last held 25 October 1993 (next to be held by NA October 1998); results - percent of votes by party NA; seats - (295 total) Liberal Party 179, Bloc Quebecois 53, Reform Party 52, New Democratic Party 8, Progressive Conservative Party 2, independents 1
#
Supreme Court
Liberal Party, Jean CHRETIEN; Bloc Quebecois, Michel GAUTHIER; Reform Party, Preston MANNING; New Democratic Party, Alexa MCDONOUGH; Progressive Conservative Party, Jean CHAREST
three vertical bands of red (hoist side), white (double width, square), and red with a red maple leaf centered in the white band
As an affluent, high-tech industrial society, Canada today closely resembles the US in per capita output, market-oriented economic system, and pattern of production. Since World War II, the impressive growth of the manufacturing, mining, and service sectors has transformed the nation from a largely rural economy into one primarily industrial and urban. Canada started the 1990s in recession, and real rates of growth have averaged only 1.1% so far this decade. Because of slower growth, Canada still faces high unemployment and a large public sector debt. With its great natural resources, skilled labor force, and modern capital plant, however, Canada will enjoy better economic prospects in the future. The continuing constitutional impasse between English- and French-speaking areas is raising the possibility of a split in the confederation, making foreign investors somewhat edgy.
#
2.10
19360
557968
2
26
72
2.40
13380000
services 75%, manufacturing 14%, agriculture 4%, construction 3%, other 4% (1988)
9.50
90400
114100
processed and unprocessed minerals, food products, wood and paper products, transportation equipment, chemicals, fish products, petroleum and natural gas
5.90
108.09
511000.00
16133
wheat, barley, oilseed, tobacco, fruits, vegetables; dairy products; forest products; commercial fisheries provide annual catch of 1.5 million metric tons, of which 75% is exported
illicit producer of cannabis for the domestic drug market; use of hydroponics technology permits growers to plant large quantities of high-quality marijuana indoors; growing role as a transit point for heroin and cocaine entering the US market
185000
newsprint, wood pulp, timber, crude petroleum, machinery, natural gas, aluminum, motor vehicles and parts; telecommunications equipment
US, Japan, UK, Germany, South Korea, Netherlands, China
166700
crude oil, chemicals, motor vehicles and parts, durable consumer goods, electronic computers; telecommunications equipment and parts
US, Japan, UK, Germany, France, Mexico, Taiwan, South Korea
233000
?
ODA, $2.373 billion (1993)
1 Canadian dollar (Can$) = 100 cents
1.37
1 April - 31 March
70176
70,000 km 1.435-m gauge (63 km electrified)
176 km 0.914-m gauge (1995)
849404
297,291 km (including 15,983 km of expressways)
552,113 km (1991 est.)
3000
?
?
74980
Becancour (Quebec), Churchill, Halifax, Montreal, New Westminister, Prince Rupert, Quebec, Saint John (New Brunswick), Saint John's (Newfoundland), Seven Islands, Sydney, Three Rivers, Thunder Bay, Toronto, Vancouver, Windsor
Canadian Armed Forces (includes Land Forces Command or LC, Maritime Command or MC, Air Command or AC, Communications Command or CC, Training Command or TC), Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)
#
7645245
6575057
197688
9000000000
1.60
@Cape Verde
0
#
Sources disagree about who discovered the Cape Verde islands. Candidates are
the Portuguese Diego Gomes in 1445, and the Venetian Alvise Cadamosto in
1450 (the dates are also not agreed upon). Claimed by Portugal in 1460, the
uninhabited islands became a Portuguese overseas territory in 1495. Cape
Verde became a republic on 5 July 1975. The National people's Assembly has
56 members, chosen by general election every 5 years. The president is
nominated for a 5-year term by this assembly, which also nominates the
prime-minister.
Cape Verde is divided into 14 regions.
#
CV
Western Africa, group of Islands in the North Atlantic Ocean, west of Senegal
4030
4030
?
?
965
?
?
200
?
12
none
temperate; warm, dry summer; precipitation meager and very erratic
steep, rugged, rocky, volcanic
Atlantic Ocean 0 m
Pico 2,829 m
salt, basalt rock, pozzolana, limestone, kaolin, fish
9
0
6
0
85
20
overgrazing of livestock and improper land use such as the cultivation of crops on steep slopes has led to soil erosion; demand for wood used as fuel has resulted in deforestation; desertification; environmental damage has threatened several indigenous species of birds and reptiles; overfishing
prolonged droughts; harmattan wind can obscure visibility; volcanically and seismically active
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Desertification, Environmental Modification, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban
449066
50
114206
110276
46
90593
117485
4
6450
10056
2.93
44.31
8.29
-6.68
1.05
1.04
0.77
0.64
0.89
54.30
63.39
61.47
65.41
6.12
Cape Verdean(s)
Cape Verdean
Creole (mulatto) 71%, African 28%, European 1%
#
Roman Catholicism fused with indigenous beliefs
Portuguese, Crioulo, a blend of Portuguese and West African words
71.60
81.40
63.80
Republic of Cape Verde
Cape Verde
Republica de Cabo Verde
Cabo Verde
republic
Praia
14 districts (concelhos, singular - concelho); Boa Vista, Brava, Fogo, Maio, Paul, Praia, Porto Novo, Ribeira Grande, Sal, Santa Catarina, Santa Cruz, Sao Nicolau, Sao Vicente, Tarrafal
Independence: 5 July 1975 (from Portugal)
#
?
Independence Day, 5 July (1975)
new constitution came into force 25 September 1992
NA
18 years of age; universal
President Antonio MASCARENHAS Monteiro (since 22 March 1991) elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 18 February 1996 (next to be held NA February 2001); results - Antonio Monteiro MASCARENHAS (independent) received 80.1% of vote
Prime Minister Carlos Alberto Wahnon de Carvalho VEIGA (since 13 January 1991) nominated by the People'sNational Assembly and appointed by the president
#
Council of Ministers appointed by prime minister from members of the Peoples National Assembly
#
unicameral
People's National Assembly (Assembleia Nacional Popular): elections last held 17 December 1995 (next to be held NA); results - MPD 59%, PAICV 28%, PCD 6%; seats - (72 total) MPD 50, PAICV 21, PCD 1
#
Supreme Tribunal of Justice (Supremo Tribunal de Justia)
Movement for Democracy (MPD), Prime Minister Carlos VEIGA, founder and chairman; African Party for Independence of Cape Verde (PAICV), Pedro Verona Rodrigues PIRES, chairman; Party for Democratic Convergence (PCD)
three horizontal bands of light blue (top, double width), white (with a horizontal red stripe in the middle third), and light blue; a circle of 10 yellow five-pointed stars is centered on the hoist end of the red stripe and extends into the upper and lower blue bands
Cape Verde's low per capita GDP reflects a poor natural resource base, serious water shortages exacerbated by cycles of long-term drought, and a high birthrate. The economy is service oriented, with commerce, transport, and public services accounting for 60% of GDP. Although nearly 70% of the population lives in rural areas, the share of agriculture in GNP is only 13%, of which fishing accounts for 4%. About 90% of food must be imported. The fishing potential, mostly lobster and tuna, is not fully exploited. Cape Verde annually runs a high trade deficit, financed by remittances from emigrants and foreign aid, which form important supplements to GDP. Economic reforms, launched by the new democratic government in 1991, are aimed at developing the private sector and attracting foreign investment to diversify the economy. Prospects for 1996 depend heavily on the maintenance of aid flows, remittances, and the momentum of the government's development program.
#
4.60
970
436
13
17
70
5
102000
agriculture (mostly subsistence) 57%, services 29%, industry 14% (1981)
35
174
235
fish processing, salt mining, garments, ship repair, food and beverages
?
0.01
40
73
bananas, corn, beans, sweet potatoes, sugarcane, coffee, peanuts; fish
increasingly used as a transshipment point for illicit drugs moving from Latin America and Africa destined for Western Europe
4.40
fish, bananas
Netherlands, Portugal, Angola, Spain
173
foodstuffs, consumer goods, industrial products, transport equipment
Portugal, Netherlands, Germany, Spain, Brazil, France, Cote d'Ivoire
156
ODA, $NA
?
1 Cape Verdean escudo (CVEsc) = 100 centavos
77.86
calendar year
?
1100
680 km
420 km (1992 est.)
?
?
?
?
Mindelo, Praia, Tarrafal
4
5632
8872
?
6
1
?
?
5
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
1740
interisland microwave radio relay system
2 coaxial submarine cables; HF radiotelephone to Senegal and Guinea-Bissau; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean)
1
6
0
?
1
7000
People's Revolutionary Armed Forces (FARP; includes Army and Navy), Security Service
#
84003
48885
?
3400000
?
@Cayman Islands
United Kingdom
#
Three coral islands (Grand Cayman, Little Cayman and Cayman Brac) in the
Carribean Sea, 240km northwest of Jamaica. A dependancy of Jamaica until
1962, now a British crown colony. Discovered by Columbus in 1503.
#
[GB]
Caribbean, island group in Caribbean Sea, nearly one-half of the way from Cuba to Honduras
260
260
?
?
160
?
?
?
200
12
none
tropical marine; warm, rainy summers (May to October) and cool, relatively dry winters (November to April)
low-lying limestone base surrounded by coral reefs
Caribbean Sea 0 m
The Bluff 43 m
fish, climate and beaches that foster tourism
0
0
8
23
69
?
no natural fresh water resources, drinking water supplies must be met by rainwater catchment
hurricanes (July to November)
NA
34646
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
4.27
14.52
4.98
33.20
?
?
?
?
?
8.40
77.10
75.37
78.81
1.40
Caymanian(s)
Caymanian
mixed 40%, white 20%, black 20%, expatriates of various ethnic groups 20%
#
United Church (Presbyterian and Congregational), Anglican, Baptist, Roman Catholic, Church of God, other Protestant denominations
English
98
98
98
none
Cayman Islands
?
?
dependent territory of the UK
George Town
8 districts; Creek, Eastern, Midland, South Town, Spot Bay, Stake Bay, West End, Western
Independence: none (dependent territory of the UK)
#
?
Constitution Day (first Monday in July)
1959, revised 1972 and 1992
British common law and local statutes
18 years of age; universal
Queen ELIZABETH II (of the United Kingdom since 6 February 1952) is a hereditary monarch
Governor and President of the Executive Council John OWEN (since 15 September 1995)
#
Executive Council - three members are appointed by the governor, four members are elected by the Legislative Assembly
#
unicameral
Legislative Assembly: election last held 18 November 1992 (next to be held NA November 1996); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (15 total, 12 elected) independents 12
#
Grand Court; Cayman Islands Court of Appeal
no formal political parties
#
?
#
Caricom (observer), CDB, Interpol (subbureau), IOC
blue, with the flag of the UK in the upper hoist-side quadrant and the Caymanian coat of arms on a white disk centered on the outer half of the flag; the coat of arms includes a pineapple and turtle above a shield with three stars (representing the three islands) and a scroll at the bottom bearing the motto HE HATH FOUNDED IT UPON THE SEAS
With no direct taxation, the Islands are a thriving offshore financial center. Tourism is also a mainstay, accounting for about 70% of GDP and 75% of foreign currency earnings. The tourist industry is aimed at the luxury market and caters mainly to visitors from North America. Total tourist arrivals exceeded one million visitors in 1995 for the first time. About 90% of the islands' food and consumer goods must be imported. The Caymanians enjoy one of the highest outputs per capita and one of the highest standards of living in the world.
#
4.50
29160
1010
1.40
3.20
95.40
1.80
8061
service workers 18.7%, clerical 18.6%, construction 12.5%, finance and investment 6.7%, directors and business managers 5.9% (1979)
7
141.50
160.70
tourism, banking, insurance and finance, construction, construction materials, furniture
?
0.08
230
6899
vegetables, fruit; livestock; turtle farming
a major money-laundering center for illicit drug profits; transshipment point for narcotics bound for the US and Europe
10
turtle products, manufactured consumer goods
mostly US
312
foodstuffs, manufactured goods
US, Trinidad and Tobago, UK, Netherlands Antilles, Japan
Defense note: defense is the responsibility of the UK
#
?
?
?
?
?
@Central African Republic
0
0$Bangui$439$1858$455000$
#
Little is known of the early history of this landlocked country. The slave
trade flourished from the 17th to the 19th centuries and a large part of the
native population fled. The region was almost empty when the Sudanese Banda
and Baya tribes arrived in the 19th century. French control was asserted in
the late 19th century, when the colony of Ubangi-Shari was established. The
territory was expanded in 1908 to include Chad, and was called French
Equatorial Africa. Internal self-government was achieved in 1957 and the
name Central African Republic was adopted. Full independence came in 1960.
Pres. Jean-Bedel Bokassa seized power in a 1965 coup. He proclaimed himself
emperor in 1977. His cruel rule ended in a French-assisted bloodless coup in
1979. The deteriorating political and economic situation led to a further
coup in 1981. The Central African Republic is divided into 14 prefectures.
#
RCA
Central Africa, north of Zaire
622980
622980
5203
Cameroon 797 km, Chad 1,197 km, Congo 467 km, Sudan 1,165 km, Zaire 1,577 km
0
?
?
?
?
?
none
tropical; hot, dry winters; mild to hot, wet summers
vast, flat to rolling, monotonous plateau; scattered hills in northeast and southwest
Oubangui River 335 m
Mount Gaou 1,420 m
diamonds, uranium, timber, gold, oil
3
0
5
64
28
?
tap water is not potable; poaching has diminished reputation as one of last great wildlife refuges; desertification
hot, dry, dusty harmattan winds affect northern areas; floods are common
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Law of the Sea
3274426
44
724914
718423
52
839118
877069
4
53418
61484
2.08
39.97
17.64
-1.53
1.03
1.01
0.96
0.87
0.98
111.70
45.86
45.03
46.71
5.41
Central African(s)
Central African
Baya 34%, Banda 27%, Sara 10%, Mandjia 21%, Mboum 4%, M'Baka 4%, Europeans 6,500 (including 3,600 French)
#
indigenous beliefs 24%, Protestant 25%, Roman Catholic 25%, Muslim 15%, other 11%
French (official), Sangho (lingua franca and national language), Arabic, Hunsa, Swahili
National Day, 1 December (1958) (proclamation of the republic)
passed by referendum 29 December 1994; adopted 7 January 1995
based on French law
21 years of age; universal
President Ange PATASSE (since 22 October 1993) elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 19 September 1993 (next to be held NA 1998); results - PATASSE received 52.45% of the votes and Abel GOUMBA received 45.62%
Prime Minister Jean-Paul NGOUPANDE (since 6 June 1996); appointed by the president
#
Council of Ministers; appointed by the president
#
unicameral
National Assembly (Assemblee Nationale): elections last held 19 September 1993 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (85 total) MLPC 33, RDC 14, PLD 7, ADP 6, PSD 3, others 22
note: the National Assembly is advised by the Economic and Regional Council (Conseil Economique et Regional); when they sit together they are called the Congress (Congres)
#
Supreme Court (Cour Supreme), judges appointed by the president; Constitutional Court, judges appointed by the president
Alliance for Democracy and Progress (ADP), Tchapka BREDE; Central African Democratic Assembly (RDC), Andre KOLINGBA; Civic Forum (FC), Gen. Timothee MALENDOMA; Liberal Democratic Party (PLD), Nestor KOMBO-NAGUEMON; Movement for the Liberation of the Central African People (MLPC), the party of the president, Ange Felix PATASSE; Movement for Democracy and Development (MDD), David DACKO; Marginal Movement for Democracy, Renaissance and Evolution (MDREC), Joseph BENDOUNGA; Patriotic Front for Progress (FFP), Abel GOUMBA; Social Democratic Party (PSD), Enoch Derant LAKOUE
four equal horizontal bands of blue (top), white, green, and yellow with a vertical red band in center; there is a yellow five-pointed star on the hoist side of the blue band
Subsistence agriculture, together with forestry, remains the backbone of the economy of the Central African Republic (CAR), with more than 70% of the population living in outlying areas. The agricultural sector generates half of GDP. Timber has accounted for about 13% of export earnings and the diamond industry for nearly 80%. Important constraints to economic development include the CAR's landlocked position, a poor transportation system, a largely unskilled work force, and a legacy of misdirected macroeconomic policies. A major plus is the large forest reserves, which the government is moving to protect from overexploitation. The 50% devaluation of the currencies of 14 Francophone African nations on 12 January 1994 had mixed effects on the CAR's economy. While diamond, timber, coffee, and cotton exports increased - leading GDP to increase by 5.5% - inflation rose to 45%, fueled by the rising prices of imports on which the economy depends; inflation dropped back rapidly in 1995. The CAR's poor resource base and primitive infrastructure will keep it dependent on multilateral donors and France for the foreseeable future.
#
4.10
330
1081
50
14
36
45
775413
agriculture 85%, commerce and services 9%, industry 3%, government 3%
?
?
?
diamond mining, sawmills, breweries, textiles, footwear, assembly of bicycles and motorcycles
France, other EC countries, Japan, Algeria, Cameroon, Namibia
904.30
ODA, $NA
?
1 Communaute Financiere Africaine franc (CFAF) = 100 centimes
500.56
calendar year
?
23738
427 km
23,311 km (1991 est.)
800
?
?
?
Bangui, Nola
?
?
?
?
48
?
1
2
?
11
?
1
9
24
?
?
16867
network consists principally of microwave radio relay and low-capacity, low-powered radiotelephone communication
satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean)
1
1
0
?
1
7500
Central African Army (includes Republican Guard), Air Force, National Gendarmerie, Police Force
#
737330
384134
?
30000000
2.30
@Chad
0
0$N'Djamena$1217$1498$500000$
#
Paleolithic and Neolithic cultures existed in Chad before the Sahara Desert
was formed. Central and northern of Chad were under control of Islamic
empires from the 9th century AD. French interest in the area began in 1860,
but colonisation did not start until 1900, when the south was occupied. Chad
was made a territory of French Equatorial Africa in 1910. It became
independent in 1960.
Chad is divided into 14 prefectures.
#
TCH
Central Africa, south of Libya
1284000
1259200
5968
Cameroon 1,094 km, Central African Republic 1,197 km, Libya 1,055 km, Niger 1,175 km, Nigeria 87 km, Sudan 1,360 km
0
?
?
?
?
?
the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled in February 1994 that the 100,000 sq km Aozou Strip between Chad and Libya belongs to Chad and that Libya must withdraw from it by 31 May 1994; Libya has withdrawn some of its forces in response to the ICJ ruling, but still maintains part of the airfield and a small military presence at the airfield's water supply located in Chad; demarcation of international boundaries in vicinity of Lake Chad, the lack of which has led to border incidents in the past, is completed and awaiting ratification by Cameroon, Chad, Niger, and Nigeria
tropical in south, desert in north
broad, arid plains in center, desert in north, mountains in northwest, lowlands in south
Djourab Depression 175 m
Emi Koussi 3,415 m
petroleum (unexploited but exploration under way), uranium, natron, kaolin, fish (Lake Chad)
2
0
36
11
51
100
inadequate supplies of potable water; improper waste disposal in rural areas contributes to soil and water pollution; desertification
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping
6976845
44
1543688
1535729
53
1807361
1881930
3
91998
116139
2.68
44.25
17.44
0
1.04
1
0.96
0.79
0.97
120.40
47.55
45.18
50.01
5.84
Chadian(s)
Chadian
north and center: Muslims (Arabs, Toubou, Hadjerai, Fulbe, Kotoko, Kanembou, Baguirmi, Boulala, Zaghawa, and Maba)
based on French civil law system and Chadian customary law; does not accept compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
NA years of age; universal
President Lt. Gen. Idriss DEBY (since 4 December 1990, after seizing power on 3 December 1990); note - transitional government's mandate was scheduled to expire in May 1996; the first round of presidential elections was scheduled for 2 June 1996, with a runoff on 23 June if necessary
Prime Minister Djimasta KOIBLA (since 9 April 1995) elected by the Sovereign National Conference
#
Council of State appointed by the president on recommendation of the prime minister
#
unicameral
Higher Transitional Council (Conseil Superieur de Transition: popular elections to the former National Consultative Council (Conceil National Consultatif) were last held 8 July 1990; this body was disbanded on 3 December 1990 by President DEBY and on 8 March 1991 replaced with the Provisional Council of the Republic having 30 members whom he appointed; this body, in turn, was replaced on 6 April 1993 by a 57-member Higher Transitional Council (Conseil Superieur de Transition) elected by a specially convened Sovereign National Conference; popular elections, formerly scheduled for April 1995, were initially postponed by mutual agreement of the parties concerned until at least May 1996 and subsequently postponed until after the rainy season (as late as October 1996); note - the name of the anticipated new legislative body has not been announced
#
Court of Appeal
Patriotic Salvation Movement (MPS), former dissident group, Idriss DEBY, chairman
note: President DEBY, who promised political pluralism, a new constitution, and free elections by April 1994, subsequently twice postponed these initiatives; there are numerous dissident groups and at least 45 opposition political parties
three equal vertical bands of blue (hoist side), yellow, and red; similar to the flag of Romania; also similar to the flag of Andorra, which has a national coat of arms featuring a quartered shield centered in the yellow band; design was based on the flag of France
Climate, geographic remoteness, poor resource endowment, and lack of infrastructure make Chad one of the most underdeveloped countries in the world. Its economy is hobbled by political turmoil, drought, and food shortages. Consequently the economy has shown little progress in recent years in overcoming a severe setback brought on by civil war in the late 1980s. More than 80% of the work force is involved in subsistence farming and fishing. Cotton is the major cash crop, accounting for at least half of exports. Chad is highly dependent on foreign aid, especially food credits, given chronic shortages in several regions. Of all the Francophone countries in Africa, Chad has benefited the least from the 50% devaluation of their currencies on 12 January 1994. Despite an increase in external financial aid and favorable price increases for cotton - the primary source of foreign exchange - the corrupt and enfeebled government bureaucracy continues to postpone payment of public sector salaries and to dampen economic enterprise by neglecting payments to domestic suppliers. The devaluation resulted in stepped-up inflation of 41% in 1994; in contrast to other Francophone countries, Chad continued to suffer high inflation in 1995 because of the government's lack of financial discipline. Oil production in the Lake Chad area remains a distant prospect and the subsistence-driven economy probably will continue to limp along in the near term.
#
4
180
1256
49
17
34
41
?
agriculture 85% (subsistence farming, herding, and fishing)
France, Nigeria, Cameroon, Zaire, Sudan, Central African Republic
201
machinery and transportation equipment 39%, industrial goods 20%, petroleum products 13%, foodstuffs 9%; textiles; note - excludes military equipment
US, France, Nigeria, Cameroon, Italy, Germany
757
ODA, $NA
?
1 Communaute Financiere Africaine franc (CFAF) = 100 centimes
500.56
calendar year
?
31141
32 km
31,109 km (1987 est.)
2000
?
?
?
none
?
?
?
?
47
?
3
1
?
11
1
?
13
18
?
?
5000
fair system of radiotelephone communication stations
satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean)
6
1
0
?
1
7000
Armed Forces (includes Ground Force, Air Force, and Gendarmerie), Republican Guard, Police
#
1562052
809210
63254
74000000
11.10
@Chile
0
0$Santiago$-3350$-7067$4545000$
1$Concepci≤n$-3683$-7305$314000$
1$Vinεa del Mar$-3300$-7158$316000$
1$Valparaiso$-3308$-7167$276000$
#
Before the Spanish conquest of 1536-40, northern Chile was under Inca rule.
The Araucanian indians in the south resisted until the late 19th century.
Independence from Spain was gained in 1810-18 and the republic was declared
in 1818. Wars with Peru (1836-39) and Bolivia (1879-84) gained Chile
mineral-rich land in the north. Social programs and nationalization of
foreign-owned mining companies were begun in 1964 under the government of
Eduardo Fei Montalva. The Allende government continued this policy from
1970. However, political and financial chaos, caused by poor planning and
extremism, led a military junta to seize power on 11 September 1973. The
two-house parliament was dissolved and political parties banned. A new
constitution came into force on 11 March 1981 prescribing the gradual
separation of the power of the military Junta and the Presidential office,
and granting power to the military regime during an 8-year transition
period. Constitutional reforms were voted for in 1989 which should ease the
transition to full parliamentary democracy.
Chile is divided into 13 regions (including the metropolitan region of
Santiago), containing 25 provinces.
#
RCH
Southern South America, bordering the South Atlantic Ocean and South Pacific Ocean, between Argentina and Peru
756950
748800
6171
Argentina 5,150 km, Bolivia 861 km, Peru 160 km
6435
24
200 nm
200
?
12
short section of the southern boundary with Argentina is indefinite; Bolivia has wanted a sovereign corridor to the South Pacific Ocean since the Atacama area was lost to Chile in 1884; dispute with Bolivia over Rio Lauca water rights; territorial claim in Antarctica (Chilean Antarctic Territory) partially overlaps Argentine and British claims
temperate; desert in north; cool and damp in south
low coastal mountains; fertile central valley; rugged Andes in east
Pacific Ocean 0 m
Cerro Aconcagua 6,962 m
copper, timber, iron ore, nitrates, precious metals, molybdenum
7
0
16
21
56
12650
air pollution from industrial and vehicle emissions; water pollution from raw sewage; deforestation contributing to loss of biodiversity; soil erosion; desertification
severe earthquakes; active volcanism; tsunamis
party to - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Law of the Sea
14333258
29
2071816
2041417
65
4599173
4651030
6
403019
566803
1.24
18.09
5.68
0
1
1.02
0.99
0.71
0.97
13.60
74.49
71.26
77.72
2.23
Chilean(s)
Chilean
European and European-Indian 95%, Indian 3%, other 2%
#
Roman Catholic 89%, Protestant 11%, Jewish
Spanish
95.20
95.40
95
Republic of Chile
Chile
Republica de Chile
Chile
republic
Santiago
13 regions (regiones, singular - region); Aisen del General Carlos Ibanez del Campo, Antofagasta, Araucania, Atacama, Bio-Bio, Coquimbo, Libertador General Bernardo O'Higgins, Los Lagos, Magallanes y de la Antartica Chilena, Maule, Region Metropolitana, Tarapaca, Valparaiso
note: the US does not recognize claims to Antarctica
Independence: 18 September 1810 (from Spain)
#
?
Independence Day, 18 September (1810)
11 September 1980, effective 11 March 1981; amended 30 July 1989
based on Code of 1857 derived from Spanish law and subsequent codes influenced by French and Austrian law; judicial review of legislative acts in the Supreme Court; does not accept compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
18 years of age; universal and compulsory
President Eduardo FREI Ruiz-Tagle (since 11 March 1994) elected for a four-year term by popular vote; election last held 11 December 1993 (next to be held NA December 1997); results - Eduardo FREI Ruiz-Tagle (PDC) 58%, Arturo ALESSANDRI 24.4%, other 17.6%
?
#
Cabinet appointed by the president
#
bicameral National Congress (Congreso Nacional)
Senate (Senado): election last held 11 December 1993 (next to be held NA December 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (46 total, 38 elected) Coalition of Parties for Democracy 21 (PDC 13, PS 4, PPD 3, PR 1), Union for the Progress of Chile 15 (RN 11, UDI 3, UCC 1), right-wing independents 10
Chamber of Deputies (Camara de Diputados): election last held 11 December 1993 (next to be held NA December 1997); results - Coalition of Parties for Democracy 53.95% (PDC 27.16%, PS 12.01%, PPD 11.82%, PR 2.96%), Union for the Progress of Chile 30.57% (RN 15.25%, UDI 12.13%, UCC 3.19%); seats - (120 total) Coalition of Parties for Democracy 70 (PDC 37, PPD 15, PR 2, PS 15, left-wing independent 1), Union for the Progress of Chile 47 (RN 30, UDI 15, UCC 2), right-wing independents 3
#
Supreme Court (Corte Suprema), judges are appointed by the president, the president of the Supreme Court is elected by the 17-member court
Coalition of Parties for Democracy (CPD) consists mainly of: Christian Democratic Party (PDC), Alejandro FOXLEY; Socialist Party (PS), Camilo ESCALONA; Party for Democracy (PPD), Jorge SCHAULSOHN, Radical Party (PR); Union for the Progress of Chile (UPP) consists mainly of three parties: National Renewal (RN), Andres ALLAMAND; Independent Democratic Union (UDI), Jovino NOVOA; Center Center Union (UCCP), Francisco Javier ERRAZURIZ
#
revitalized university student federations at all major universities; labor - United Labor Central (CUT) includes trade unionists from the country's five largest labor confederations; Roman Catholic Church
two equal horizontal bands of white (top) and red; there is a blue square the same height as the white band at the hoist-side end of the white band; the square bears a white five-pointed star in the center; design was based on the US flag
Chile has a prosperous, essentially free market economy, with the degree of government intervention varying according to the philosophy of the different regimes. Under the center-left government of President AYLWIN, which took power in March 1990, spending on social welfare rose steadily. At the same time business investment, exports, and consumer spending also grew substantially. The new president, FREI, who took office in March 1994, has emphasized social spending even more. Growth in real GDP in 1991-95 has averaged more than 6.5% annually, with an estimated one million Chileans having moved out of poverty in the last four years. Copper remains vital to the health of the economy; Chile is the world's largest producer and exporter of copper. Success in meeting the government's goal of sustained annual economic growth of 5% depends on world copper prices, the level of confidence of foreign investors and creditors, and the government's own ability to maintain a conservative fiscal stance.
#
8.50
3960
56760
7.40
36.40
56.20
8.10
4728000
services 38.3% (includes government 12%), industry and commerce 33.8%, agriculture, forestry, and fishing 19.2%, mining 2.3%, construction 6.4% (1990)
5.40
17000
17000
copper, other minerals, foodstuffs, fish processing, iron and steel, wood and wood products, transport equipment, cement, textiles
4.30
4.81
22000
1499
wheat, corn, grapes, beans, sugar beets, potatoes, fruit; beef, poultry, wool; timber; 1991 fish catch of 6.6 million metric tons
a minor transshipment country for cocaine destined for the US and Europe; booming economy has made it more attractive to traffickers seeking to launder drug profits
15900
copper 41%, other metals and minerals 8.7%, wood products 7.1%, fish and fishmeal 9.8%, fruits 8.4% (1991)
EU 25%, US 15%, Asia 34%, Latin America 20% (1995 est.)
14300
capital goods 25.2%, spare parts 24.8%, raw materials 15.4%, petroleum 10%, foodstuffs 5.7%
EU 18%, US 25%, Asia 16%, Latin America 26% (1995 est.)
21100
ODA, $62 million (1993)
?
1 Chilean peso (Ch$) = 100 centavos
408.64
calendar year
6782
3,743 km 1.676-m gauge (1,653 km electrified)
116 km 1.067-m gauge; 2,923 km 1.000-m gauge (40 km electrified) (1995)
79593
10,984 km
68,609 km (1991 est.)
725
755
785
320
Antofagasta, Arica, Chanarol, Coquimbo, Iquique, Puerto Montt, Punta Arenas, San Antonio, San Vicente, Talcahuano, Valparaiso
Army of the Nation, National Navy (includes Naval Air, Coast Guard, and Marines), Air Force of the Nation, Carabineros of Chile (National Police), Investigations Police
#
3808655
2832198
123443
970000000
2
@China
0
0$Beijing$3992$11642$7000000$
1$Shangha∩$3125$12150$7830000$
1$Tianjin$3914$11720$5770000$
1$Shenyang$4180$12345$4540000$
1$Wuhan$3060$11428$3750000$
1$Guangzhou$2310$11327$3580000$
1$Chongqing$2965$10657$2980000$
1$Harbin$4575$12668$2830000$
1$Chengdu$4097$11789$2810000$
1$Xian$3425$10886$2760000$
1$Nanjing$3217$11883$2500000$
1$Lhassa$2968$9117$70000$
#
China has been inhabited since prehistoric times. By the Shang Dynasty
(c.1500 BC-c.1000 BC) pictographic writing, similar to today's, was in use.
A technologically and culturally advanced society developed and expanded
over the next 3,000 years. By the 19th century, a period of relative
stagnation had left China open to internal and external pressures. Large
parts of the country fell under the control of foreign powers including
Britain, Japan and Russia. The monarchy was abolished in 1911 and China
became a republic in 1912. The People's Republic of China was proclaimed on
21 September 1949 with the Communists in control. In December of that same
year, the Kuomintang government moved to Taiwan. On 25 October 1971, the
Taiwan representation at the UN was ousted and the People's Republic took
its place. Reforms of the central bureaucracy were started in 1982, but a
seeming return towards democracy and freedom of speech was slowed in the
summer of 1989 following the massacre of hundreds of demonstrators (mostly
students) in Peking.
China consists of 21 provinces, 5 autonomous regions (including Tibet), and
3 municipalities (Beijing-Peking, Shanghai, and Tianjin-Tientsin).
#
TJ
Eastern Asia, bordering the East China Sea, Korea Bay, Yellow Sea, and South China Sea, between North Korea and Vietnam
9596960
9326410
22143.34
Afghanistan 76 km, Bhutan 470 km, Burma 2,185 km, Hong Kong 30 km, India 3,380 km, Kazakstan 1,533 km, North Korea 1,416 km, Kyrgyzstan 858 km, Laos 423 km, Macau 0.34 km, Mongolia 4,673 km, Nepal 1,236 km, Pakistan 523 km, Russia (northeast) 3,605 km, Russia (northwest) 40 km, Tajikistan 414 km, Vietnam 1,281 km
14500
?
claim to shallow areas of East China Sea and Yellow Sea
?
?
12
boundary with India in dispute; disputed sections of the boundary with Russia remain to be settled; boundary with Tajikistan in dispute; short section of the boundary with North Korea is indefinite; involved in a complex dispute over the Spratly Islands with Malaysia, Philippines, Taiwan, Vietnam, and possibly Brunei; maritime boundary dispute with Vietnam in the Gulf of Tonkin; Paracel Islands occupied by China, but claimed by Vietnam and Taiwan; claims Japanese-administered Senkaku-shoto (Senkaku Islands/Diaoyu Tai), as does Taiwan
extremely diverse; tropical in south to subarctic in north
mostly mountains, high plateaus, deserts in west; plains, deltas, and hills in east
air pollution from the overwhelming use of high-sulfur coal as a fuel, produces acid rain which is damaging forests; water shortages experienced throughout the country, particularly in urban areas; future growth in water usage threatens to outpace supplies; water pollution from industrial effluents; much of the population does not have access to potable water; less than 10% of sewage receives treatment; deforestation; estimated loss of one-fifth of agricultural land since 1957 to soil erosion and economic development; desertification; trade in endangered species
frequent typhoons (about five per year along southern and eastern coasts); damaging floods; tsunamis; earthquakes; droughts
party to - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Law of the Sea
1210004956
26
167448148
151601650
67
421455418
393913510
7
35056409
40529821
0.98
17.01
6.92
-0.34
1.11
1.10
1.07
0.86
1.06
39.60
69.62
68.33
71.06
1.81
Chinese (singular and plural)
Chinese
Han Chinese 91.9%, Zhuang, Uygur, Hui, Yi, Tibetan, Miao, Manchu, Mongol, Buyi, Korean, and other nationalities 8.1%
#
Daoism (Taoism), Buddhism, Muslim 2%-3%, Christian 1% (est.)
Standard Chinese or Mandarin (Putonghua, based on the Beijing dialect), Yue (Cantonese), Wu (Shanghaiese), Minbei (Fuzhou), Minnan (Hokkien-Taiwanese), Xiang, Gan, Hakka dialects, minority languages (see Ethnic divisions entry)
81.50
89.90
72.70
People's Republic of China
China
Zhonghua Renmin Gongheguo
Zhong Guo
Communist state
Beijing
23 provinces (sheng, singular and plural), 5 autonomous regions* (zizhiqu, singular and plural), and 3 municipalities** (shi, singular and plural); Anhui, Beijing**, Fujian, Gansu, Guangdong, Guangxi*, Guizhou, Hainan, Hebei, Heilongjiang, Henan, Hubei, Hunan, Jiangsu, Jiangxi, Jilin, Liaoning, Nei Mongol*, Ningxia*, Qinghai, Shaanxi, Shandong, Shanghai**, Shanxi, Sichuan, Tianjin**, Xinjiang*, Xizang* (Tibet), Yunnan, Zhejiang
note: China considers Taiwan its 23rd province
Independence: 221 BC (unification under the Qin or Ch'in Dynasty 221 BC; Qing or Ch'ing Dynasty replaced by the Republic on 12 February 1912; People's Republic established 1 October 1949)
#
?
National Day, 1 October (1949)
most recent promulgated 4 December 1982
a complex amalgam of custom and statute, largely criminal law; rudimentary civil code in effect since 1 January 1987; new legal codes in effect since 1 January 1980; continuing efforts are being made to improve civil, administrative, criminal, and commercial law
18 years of age; universal
President JIANG Zemin (since 27 March 1993) and Vice President RONG Yiren (since 27 March 1993) elected by the National People's Congress; election last held 27 March 1993 (next to be held NA 1998); results - JIANG Zemin was nominally elected by the Eighth National People's Congress
Premier LI Peng (Acting Premier since 24 November 1987, Premier since 9 April 1988) nominated by the president, decided by the National People's Congress; Vice Premiers ZHU Rongji (since 8 April 1991), ZOU Jiahua (since 8 April 1991), QIAN Qichen (since 29 March 1993), LI Lanqing (29 March 1993), WU Bangguo (since 17 March 1995), and JIANG Chunyun (since 17 March 1995) nominated by the president, decided by the National People's Congress
#
State Council appointed by the National People's Congress (NPC)
#
unicameral
National People's Congress (Quanguo Renmin Daibiao Dahui): elections last held NA March 1993 (next to be held NA March 1998); results - CCP is the only party but there are also independents; seats - (2,977 total) (elected at county or xian level)
#
Supreme People's Court, judges appointed by the National People's Congress
Chinese Communist Party (CCP), JIANG Zemin, general secretary of the Central Committee; eight registered small parties controlled by CCP
#
such meaningful opposition as exists consists of loose coalitions, usually within the party and government organization, that vary by issue
red with a large yellow five-pointed star and four smaller yellow five-pointed stars (arranged in a vertical arc toward the middle of the flag) in the upper hoist-side corner
Beginning in late 1978 the Chinese leadership has been trying to move the economy from a sluggish Soviet-style centrally planned economy to one that is more market-oriented, but still within a rigid political framework of Communist Party control. To this end the authorities switched to a system of household responsibility in agriculture in place of the old collectivization, increased the authority of local officials and plant managers in industry, permitted a wide variety of small-scale enterprise in services and light manufacturing, and opened the economy to increased foreign trade and investment. The result has been a strong surge in production. Agricultural output doubled in the 1980s, and industry also posted major gains, especially in coastal areas near Hong Kong and opposite Taiwan, where foreign investment and modern production methods helped spur output of both domestic and export goods. GDP has more than tripled since 1978. On the darker side, the leadership has often experienced in its hybrid system the worst results of socialism (bureaucracy, lassitude, corruption) and of capitalism (windfall gains and stepped-up inflation). Beijing thus has periodically backtracked, retightening central controls at intervals. In 1992-95 annual growth of GDP accelerated, particularly in the coastal areas - averaging more than 10% annually according to official figures. In late 1993 China's leadership approved additional long-term reforms aimed at giving still more play to market-oriented institutions and at strengthening the center's control over the financial system; state enterprises would continue to dominate many key industries in what was now termed "a socialist market economy." In 1995 inflation dropped sharply, reflecting tighter monetary policies and stronger measures to control food prices. At the same time, the government struggled to (a) collect revenues due from provinces, businesses, and individuals; (b) reduce extortion and other economic crimes; and (c) keep afloat the large state-owne
d enterprises, most of which had not participated in the vigorous expansion of the economy. From 60 to 100 million surplus rural workers are adrift between the villages and the cities, many subsisting through part-time low-pay jobs. Popular resistance, changes in central policy, and loss of authority by rural cadres have weakened China's population control program, which is essential to the nation's long-term economic viability. One of the most dangerous long-term threats to continued rapid economic growth is the deterioration in the environment, notably air pollution, soil erosion, and the steady fall of the water table especially in the north. The amount of arable land continues to decline because of erosion and economic development, the cumulative loss since the Communist takeover in 1949 being more than 15%. The next few years will witness increasing tensions between a highly centralized political system and an increasingly decentralized economic system.
#
10.30
620
750203
19
48
33
10.10
583600000
agriculture and forestry 60%, industry and commerce 25%, construction and mining 5%, social services 5%, other 5% (1990 est.)
5.20
?
?
iron and steel, coal, machine building, armaments, textiles and apparel, petroleum, cement, chemical fertilizers, consumer durables, food processing, autos, consumer electronics, telecommunications
13.40
162
746000
593
rice, potatoes, sorghum, peanuts, tea, millet, barley, cotton, other fibers, oilseed; pork and other livestock products; fish
major transshipment point for heroin produced in the Golden Triangle; growing domestic drug abuse problem
148800
garments, textiles, footwear, toys, machinery and equipment (1994)
Hong Kong, Japan, US, Germany, South Korea, Singapore (1994)
telephone lines are being expanded; interprovincial fiber-optic trunk lines and cellular telephone systems have been installed; a domestic satellite system with 55 earth stations is in place
satellite earth stations - 5 Intelsat (4 Pacific Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean), 1 Intersputnik (Indian Ocean Region) and 1 Inmarsat (Pacific and Indian Ocean Regions); several international fiber-optic links to Japan, South Korea, and Hong Kong
274
?
0
216500000
202
75000000
People's Liberation Army (PLA), which includes the Ground Forces, Navy (includes Marines and Naval Aviation), Air Force, Second Artillery Corps (the strategic missile force), People's Armed Police (internal security troops, nominally subordinate to Ministry of Public Security, but included by the Chinese as part of the "armed forces" and considered to be an adjunct to the PLA in wartime)
#
352506948
194589216
9763916
?
?
@Christmas Island
Australia
#
In the Indian Ocean, 360 km south of Java. Administered by Singapore from
1900 until 1958, now by Australia.
#
[AUS]
Southeastern Asia, island in the Indian Ocean, south of Indonesia
135
135
?
?
138.90
12
?
?
200
3
none
tropical; heat and humidity moderated by trade winds
steep cliffs along coast rise abruptly to central plateau
Indian Ocean 0 m
Murray Hill 361 m
phosphate
0
0
0
0
100
?
NA
the narrow fringing reef surrounding the island can be a maritime hazard
NA
813
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
-8.98
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
Christmas Islander(s)
Christmas Island
Chinese 61%, Malay 25%, European 11%, other 3%, no indigenous population
#
Buddhist 55%, Christian 15%, Muslim 10%, other 20% (1991)
English
?
?
?
Territory of Christmas Island
Christmas Island
?
?
territory of Australia
The Settlement
none (territory of Australia)
Independence: none (territory of Australia)
#
?
NA
Christmas Island Act of 1958
under the authority of the governor general of Australia
?
Queen ELIZABETH II (of the United Kingdom since 6 February 1952) is a hereditary monarch
Administrator Danny Ambrose GILLESPIE (since NA) was appointed by the governor general of Australia and represents the queen and Australia
#
Christmas Island Shire Council
#
none
#
Supreme Court
none
#
?
#
none
the flag of Australia is used
Phosphate mining had been the only significant economic activity, but in December 1987 the Australian Government closed the mine as no longer economically viable. Private operators reopened the mine in 1990 under strict environmental controls, in particular to preserve the rain forest. A hotel and casino complex opened in 1993, and tourism is a likely growth sector.
#
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
all workers are employees of the Phosphate Mining Company of Christmas Island, Ltd.
?
?
?
phosphate extraction (near depletion)
?
0.01
30
17800
NA
?
?
phosphate
Australia, NZ
?
consumer goods
principally Australia
?
?
?
1 Australian dollar ($A) = 100 cents
1.35
1 July - 30 June
?
?
NA km
NA km
?
?
?
?
Flying Fish Cove
?
?
?
?
1
?
?
1
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
NA
NA
1
0
0
500
1
350
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
@Clipperton Island
France
#
#
Middle America, atoll in the North Pacific Ocean, 1,120 km southwest of Mexico
7
7
?
?
11.10
?
?
200
?
12
claimed by Mexico
tropical, humid, average temperature 20-32 degrees C, rains May-October
coral atoll
Pacific Ocean 0 m
Rocher Clipperton 21 m
none
0
0
0
0
100
0
NA
subject to tornadoes
NA
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
none
Clipperton Island
none
Ile Clipperton
French possession administered by France from French Polynesia by the High Commissioner of the Republic
none; administered by France from French Polynesia
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
#
?
#
?
?
#
?
#
?
the flag of France is used
The only economic activity is a tuna fishing station.
Transportation
#
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
none; offshore anchorage only
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
@Cocos (Keeling) Islands
0
#
#
Southeastern Asia, group of islands in the Indian Ocean, south of Indonesia, about one-half of the way from Australia to Sri Lanka
14
14
?
?
2.60
?
?
?
200
3
none
pleasant, modified by the southeast trade wind for about nine months of the year; moderate rainfall
flat, low-lying coral atolls
Indian Ocean 0 m
unnamed location 5 m
fish
?
?
?
?
?
?
fresh water resources are limited to rainwater accumulations in natural underground reservoirs
cyclones may occur in the early months of the year
NA
609
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
0.94
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
Cocos Islander(s)
Cocos Islander
West Island: Europeans. Home Island: Cocos Malays
#
Sunni Muslim 57%, Christian 22%, other 21% (1981 est.)
English
?
?
?
Territory of Cocos (Keeling) Islands
Cocos (Keeling) Islands
?
?
territory of Australia
West Island
none (territory of Australia)
Independence: none (territory of Australia)
#
?
NA
Cocos (Keeling) Islands Act of 1955
based upon the laws of Australia and local laws
NA
Queen ELIZABETH II (of the United Kingdom since 6 February 1952) is a hereditary monarch
Administrator John Bell READ (since NA) was appointed by the governor general of Australia and represents the queen and Australia
#
?
#
unicameral Cocos (Keeling) Islands Shire Council; President of the Islands Council Ronald GRANT (since NA)
#
Supreme Court
none
#
?
#
WMO
the flag of Australia is used
Grown throughout the islands, coconuts are the sole cash crop. Copra and fresh coconuts are the major export earners. Small local gardens and fishing contribute to the food supply, but additional food and most other necessities must be imported from Australia.
#
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
copra products
?
0.00
2
2980
vegetables, bananas, pawpaws, coconuts
?
?
copra
Australia
?
foodstuffs
Australia
?
?
?
1 Australian dollar ($A) = 100 cents
1.35
1 July - 30 June
?
?
NA km
NA km
?
?
?
?
none; lagoon anchorage only
?
?
?
?
1
?
?
1
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
NA
telephone, telex, and facsimile communications with Australia via satellite; 1 satellite earth station of NA type
1
0
0
300
0
?
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
@Colombia
0
0$Bogota$457$-7400$4819000$
1$Medellin$625$-7558$1664000$
1$Cali$345$-7652$1637000$
1$Barranquilla$1100$-7483$1000000$
1$Cartagena$1042$-7555$531000$
#
Colombia was conquered by the Spanish in the early 16th century. Together
with surrounding regions, under the name of New Grenada, it was ruled by
them for 300 years. Simon Bolivar proclaimed the republic of Gran-Colombia
(including Venezuela, Ecuador, and Panama) in 1819. Ecuador and Venezuela
broke away in 1829, followed by Panama in 1903. The president is both head
of state and prime-minister. Legislative power rests with the Senate, 114
seats, and the House of Representatives, with 199. Members of both houses,
and the president, are chosen by general election for a term of 4 years.
Colombia is divided into 23 departments, 8 national territories, and the
special district of Bogotß.
#
CO
Northern South America, bordering the Caribbean Sea, between Panama and Venezuela, and bordering the North Pacific Ocean, between Ecuador and Panama
1138910
1038700
7408
Brazil 1,643 km, Ecuador 590 km, Panama 225 km, Peru 2,900 km, Venezuela 2,050 km
3208
?
200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
200
?
12
maritime boundary dispute with Venezuela in the Gulf of Venezuela; territorial dispute with Nicaragua over Archipelago de San Andres y Providencia and Quita Sueno Bank
tropical along coast and eastern plains; cooler in highlands
flat coastal lowlands, central highlands, high Andes Mountains, eastern lowland plains
Pacific Ocean 0 m
Nevado del Huila 5,750 m
petroleum, natural gas, coal, iron ore, nickel, gold, copper, emeralds
4
2
29
49
16
5150
deforestation; soil damage from overuse of pesticides; air pollution, especially in Bogota, from vehicle emissions
highlands subject to volcanic eruptions; occasional earthquakes; periodic droughts
party to - Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83; signed, but not ratified - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Desertification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Tropical Timber 94
36813161
32
5948599
5806450
64
11496931
11890875
4
741788
928518
1.66
21.34
4.65
-0.13
1.03
1.02
0.97
0.80
0.98
25.80
72.81
69.97
75.73
2.35
Colombian(s)
Colombian
mestizo 58%, white 20%, mulatto 14%, black 4%, mixed black-Indian 3%, Indian 1%
#
Roman Catholic 95%
Spanish
91.30
91.20
91.40
Republic of Colombia
Colombia
Republica de Colombia
Colombia
republic; executive branch dominates government structure
Bogota
32 departments (departamentos, singular - departamento) and 1 capital district* (distrito capital); Amazonas, Antioquia, Arauca, Atlantico, Bogota*, Bolivar, Boyaca, Caldas, Caqueta, Casanare, Cauca, Cesar, Choco, Cordoba, Cundinamarca, Guainia, Guaviare, Huila, La Guajira, Magdalena, Meta, Narino, Norte de Santander, Putumayo, Quindio, Risaralda, San Andres y Providencia, Santander, Sucre, Tolima, Valle del Cauca, Vaupes, Vichada
Independence: 20 July 1810 (from Spain)
#
?
Independence Day, 20 July (1810)
5 July 1991
based on Spanish law; a new criminal code modeled after US procedures was enacted in 1992-93; judicial review of executive and legislative acts; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with reservations
18 years of age; universal and compulsory
President Ernesto SAMPER Pizano (since 7 August 1994) elected for a four-year term by popular vote; election last held 29 May 1994 (next to be held NA May 1998) results - no candidate received more than 50% of the total vote; a run-off election to select a president from the two leading candidates was held 19 June 1994; results - Ernesto SAMPER Pizano (Liberal Party) 50.4%, Andres PASTRANA Arango (Conservative Party) 48.6%, blank votes 1%; Humberto de la CALLE Lombana elected vice president for a four-year term by popular vote in a new procedure that replaces the traditional designation of vice presidents by newly elected presidents
?
#
Cabinet
#
bicameral Congress (Congreso)
Senate (Senado): elections last held 13 March 1994 (next to be held NA March 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (102 total) Liberal Party 59, conservatives (includes PC, MSN, and NDF) 31, other 12
House of Representatives (Camara de Representantes): elections last held 13 March 1994 (next to be held NA March 1998); seats - (161 total) Liberal Party 89, conservatives (includes PC, MSN, and NDF) 53, AD/M-19 2, other 17
#
Supreme Court of Justice (Corte Suprema de Justical), highest court of criminal law, judges are selected from the nominees of the Higher Council of Justice for eight-year terms; Council of State, highest court of administrative law, judges are selected from the nominees of the Higher Council of Justice for eight-year terms; Constitutional Court, guards integrity and supremacy of the constitution, rules on constitutionality of laws, amendments to the constitution, and international treaties
Liberal Party (PL), Luis Fernando JARAMILLO; Conservative Party (PC), Jaime ARIAS; New Democratic Force (NDF), Andres PASTRANA Arango; Democratic Alliance M-19 (AD/M-19) is a coalition of small leftist parties and dissident liberals and conservatives; Patriotic Union (UP) is a legal political party formed by Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) and Colombian Communist Party (PCC), Aida ABELLA; National Salvation Movement (MSN) Alvaro GOMEZ Hurtado
#
three insurgent groups are active in Colombia - Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC); National Liberation Army (ELN); and dissidents of the recently demobilized People's Liberation Army (EPL/D)
three horizontal bands of yellow (top, double-width), blue, and red; similar to the flag of Ecuador, which is longer and bears the Ecuadorian coat of arms superimposed in the center
Boasting a diversified and stable economy, Colombia has enjoyed Latin America's most consistent record of growth over the last several decades. Gross domestic product (GDP) has expanded every year for more than 25 years, and unlike many other South American countries, Colombia did not default on any of its official debts during the "lost decade" of the 1980s. Since 1990, when Bogota introduced a comprehensive reform program that opened the economy to foreign trade and investment, GDP growth has averaged more than 4% annually. Growth has been fueled in recent years by the expansion of the construction and financial service industries and an influx of foreign capital. Some foreign investors have been deterred by an inadequate energy and transportation infrastructure and the violence stemming from drug trafficking and persistent rural guerrilla warfare, but direct foreign investment, especially in the oil industry, is still rising at a rapid rate. Although oil consequently is overtaking coffee as the main legal export, earnings from illicit drugs probably exceed those from any other export. Non-petroleum economic growth has been slowing, however, in part because the tight monetary policies adopted to offset the inflationary impact of high capital inflows and rising government spending have slowed local sales and investment. Business confidence also has been damaged by a political crisis stemming from allegations that senior government officials, including President SAMPER, solicited contributions from drug traffickers during the 1994 election campaign. The slowdown in the growth of labor-intensive industries such as manufacturing has caused a small rise in unemployment and interfered with President SAMPER'S plans to lower the country's poverty rate, which has remained at about 40% despite the expanding economy. Nevertheless, the booming oil sector, growing foreign investment, and the fundamental stability of the economy promise to keep growth positive for the foreseeable future, barring severe, un
predictable shocks from developments in the political or international arenas.
#
5.30
1900
69945
21.50
29
49.50
19.50
12000000
services 46%, agriculture 30%, industry 24% (1990)
illicit producer of coca, opium poppies, and cannabis; about 50,900 hectares of coca under cultivation in 1995; the world's largest processor of coca derivatives into cocaine; supplier of cocaine to the US and other international drug markets; active aerial eradication program seeks to virtually eliminate coca and opium crops by 1997
Army (Ejercito Nacional), Navy (Armada Nacional, includes Marines and Coast Guard), Air Force (Fuerza Aerea Colombiana), National Police (Policia Nacional)
#
10067538
6774105
346372
2000000000
2.80
@Comoros
0
0$Moroni$-1206$4432$60000$
#
#
?
Southern Africa, group of islands in the Mozambique Channel, about two-thirds of the way between northern Madagascar and northern Mozambique
2170
2170
?
?
340
?
?
200
?
12
claims French-administered Mayotte
tropical marine; rainy season (November to May)
volcanic islands, interiors vary from steep mountains to low hills
Indian Ocean 0 m
Mount Kartala 2,360 m
negligible
35
8
7
16
34
?
soil degradation and erosion results from crop cultivation on slopes without proper terracing; deforestation
cyclones and tsunamis possible during rainy season (December to April); Mount Kartala on Grand Comore is an active volcano
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - Desertification
569237
48
137235
136207
49
138447
142058
3
7242
8048
3.55
45.82
10.28
0
1.03
1.01
0.98
0.90
0.99
75.30
58.70
56.43
61.05
6.65
Comoran(s)
Comoran
Antalote, Cafre, Makoa, Oimatsaha, Sakalava
#
Sunni Muslim 86%, Roman Catholic 14%
Arabic (official), French (official), Comoran (a blend of Swahili and Arabic)
57.30
64.20
50.40
Federal Islamic Republic of the Comoros
Comoros
Republique Federale Islamique des Comores
Comores
independent republic
Moroni
three islands; Grand Comore (Njazidja), Anjouan (Nzwani), and Moheli (Mwali)
note: there are also four municipalities named Domoni, Fomboni, Moroni, and Mutsamudu
Independence: 6 July 1975 (from France)
#
?
Independence Day, 6 July (1975)
7 June 1992
French and Muslim law in a new consolidated code
18 years of age; universal
President Mohamed TAKI Abdulkarim (since 16 March 1996) was elected by popular vote; election last held 16 March 1996 (next to be held March 2001)
Prime Minister MASSOUNDI Tadjidine Ben Said (since March 1996) was appointed by the president
#
Council of Ministers appointed by the president
#
unicameral
Federal Assembly (Assemblee Federale): elections last held 12-20 December 1993 (next to be held by NA January 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (42 total) ruling coalition: RDR 15, UNDC 5, MWANGAZA 2; opposition: UDZIMA 8; other smaller parties: 10; two seats remained unfilled
#
Supreme Court (Cour Supreme), two members are appointed by the president, two members are elected by the Federal Assembly, one by the Council of each island, plus all the former presidents of the republic
Islands' Fraternity and Unity Party (CHUMA), Said Ali KEMAL; over 20 political parties are currently active, the most important of which are Comoran Union for Progress (UDZIMA), Omar TAMOU; Comoran Party for Democracy and Progress (PCDP), Ali MROUDJAE; Realizing Freedom's Capability (UWEZO), Mouazair ABDALLAH; Democratic Front of the Comoros (FDR), Moustapha CHELKH; Dialogue Proposition Action (DPA/MWANGAZA), Said MCHAWGAMA; Rally for Change and Democracy (RACHADE), Hassan HACHIM; Union for Democracy and Decentralization (UNDC), Mohamed Taki Halidi IBRAHAM; Rally for Democracy and Renewal (RDR); Comoran Popular Front (FPC), Mohamed HASSANALI, Mohamed El Arif OUKACHA, Abdou MOUSTAKIM (Secretary General)
green with a white crescent in the center of the field, its points facing downward; there are four white five-pointed stars placed in a line between the points of the crescent; the crescent, stars, and color green are traditional symbols of Islam; the four stars represent the four main islands of the archipelago - Mwali, Njazidja, Nzwani, and Mayotte (a territorial collectivity of France, but claimed by Comoros); the design, the most recent of several, is described in the constitution approved by referendum on 7 June 1992
One of the world's poorest countries, Comoros is made up of several islands that have poor transportation links, a young and rapidly increasing population, and few natural resources. The low educational level of the labor force contributes to a subsistence level of economic activity, high unemployment, and a heavy dependence on foreign grants and technical assistance. Agriculture, including fishing, hunting, and forestry, is the leading sector of the economy. It contributes 40% to GDP, employs 80% of the labor force, and provides most of the exports. The country is not self-sufficient in food production; rice, the main staple, accounts for 90% of imports. The government is struggling to upgrade education and technical training, to privatize commercial and industrial enterprises, to improve health services, to diversify exports, and to reduce the high population growth rate. Continued foreign support is essential if the goal of 4% annual GDP growth is to be reached in the late 1990s.
#
0.90
490
279
?
?
?
15
140000
agriculture 80%, government 3%
15.80
83
92
tourism, perfume distillation, textiles, furniture, jewelry, construction materials, soft drinks
rice and other foodstuffs, petroleum products, cement, consumer goods
France 34%, South Africa 14%, Kenya 8%, Japan 4% (1992)
160
ODA, $NA
?
1 Comoran franc (CF) = 100 centimes
375.42
calendar year
?
1104
400 km
704 km (1988 est.)
?
?
?
?
Fomboni, Moroni, Mutsamudu
?
?
?
?
4
?
1
?
3
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
3770
HF radiotelephone communications and microwave radio relay
HF radiotelephone communications to Madagascar and Reunion
2
1
0
?
0
200
Comoran Security Force
#
121854
72873
?
?
?
@Congo
0
0$Brazzaville$-423$1523$600000$
#
Diego Cam, a Portuguese explorer, visited the Congo estuary in 1482.
Slave-trading flourished along the coast in the 16th century. The French
gradually became more influential in the area, and in 1885 they established
control of the land to the west of the Congo and Oubangi. Congo became part
of French Equatorial Africa in 1910. France granted internal self-rule in
1958, and independence was gained on 15 August 1960. Executive power lies
with the president and his cabinet-council. There is one legislative body,
the People's National Assembly with 153 seats elected members. Congo is
divided into 9 regions and the capital district of Brazzaville.
#
RPC
Western Africa, bordering the South Atlantic Ocean, between Angola and Gabon
342000
341500
5504
Angola 201 km, Cameroon 523 km, Central African Republic 467 km, Gabon 1,903 km, Zaire 2,410 km
169
?
?
?
?
200
long segment of boundary with Zaire along the Congo River is indefinite (no division of the river or its islands has been made)
tropical; rainy season (March to June); dry season (June to October); constantly high temperatures and humidity; particularly enervating climate astride the Equator
coastal plain, southern basin, central plateau, northern basin
Atlantic Ocean 0 m
Mount Berongou 903 m
petroleum, timber, potash, lead, zinc, uranium, copper, phosphates, natural gas
2
0
29
62
7
40
air pollution from vehicle emissions; water pollution from the dumping of raw sewage; tap water is not potable; deforestation
seasonal flooding
party to - Endangered Species, Ozone Layer Protection, Tropical Timber 83; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Desertification, Law of the Sea, Tropical Timber 94
2527841
43
550971
545096
53
657035
688441
4
34973
51325
2.19
39.19
17.35
0
1.03
1.01
0.95
0.68
0.97
108.10
45.77
44.21
47.37
5.15
Congolese (singular and plural)
Congolese or Congo
south: Kongo 48%
north: Sangha 20%, M'Bochi 12%
center: Teke 17%, Europeans 8,500 (mostly French)
#
Christian 50%, animist 48%, Muslim 2%
French (official), African languages (Lingala and Kikongo are the most widely used)
74.90
83.10
67.20
Republic of the Congo
Congo
Republique Populaire du Congo
Congo
republic
Brazzaville
9 regions (regions, singular - region) and 1 commune*; Bouenza, Brazzaville*, Cuvette, Kouilou, Lekoumou, Likouala, Niari, Plateaux, Pool, Sangha
Independence: 15 August 1960 (from France)
#
?
Congolese National Day, 15 August (1960)
new constitution approved by referendum March 1992
based on French civil law system and customary law
18 years of age; universal
President Pascal LISSOUBA (since August 1992); elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held NA August 1992 (next to be held NA August 1997); results - President Pascal LISSOUBA won 61% of the vote
Prime Minister Jacques Joachim YHOMBI-OPANGO (since 23 June 1993) appointed by the president
#
Council of Ministers appointed by the president
#
bicameral
National Assembly (Assemblee Nationale): election last held 3 October 1993 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (125 total) UPADS 64, URD/PCT 58, others 3
Senate: election last held 26 July 1992 (next to be held NA July 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (60 total) UPADS 23, MCDDI 14, RDD 8, RDPS 5, PCT 2, others 8
#
Supreme Court (Cour Supreme)
of Congo's many political parties, the most important are Congolese Labor Party (PCT), Denis SASSOU-NGUESSO, president; Association for Democracy and Development (RDD), Joachim Yhombi OPANGO, president; Association for Democracy and Social Progress (RDPS), Jean-Pierre Thystere TCHICAYA, president; Congolese Movement for Democracy and Integral Development (MCDDI), Bernard KOLELAS, leader; Pan-African Union for Social Development (UPADS), Pascal LISSOUBA, leader; Union of Democratic Forces (UFD), David Charles GANAO, leader; Union for Democratic Renewal (URD); Union for Development and Social Progress (UDPS), Jean-Michael BOKAMBA-YANGOUMA, leader
#
Union of Congolese Socialist Youth (UJSC); Congolese Trade Union Congress (CSC); Revolutionary Union of Congolese Women (URFC); General Union of Congolese Pupils and Students (UGEEC)
divided diagonally from the lower hoist side by a yellow band; the upper triangle (hoist side) is green and the lower triangle is red; uses the popular pan-African colors of Ethiopia
Congo's economy is a mixture of village agriculture and handicrafts, an industrial sector based largely on oil, support services, and a government characterized by budget problems and overstaffing. Oil has supplanted forestry as the mainstay of the economy, providing about 90% of government revenues and exports. In the early 1980s, rapidly rising oil revenues enabled Congo to finance large-scale development projects with GDP growth averaging 5% annually, one of the highest rates in Africa. Subsequently, falling oil prices cut GDP growth by half. Moreover, the Congolese Government has mortgaged a substantial portion of its oil earnings, contributing to the government's shortage of revenues. The 12 January 1994 devaluation of Franc Zone currencies by 50% resulted in inflation of 61% in 1994. Recent efforts to implement economic reforms have begun to show progress; the IMF has recommended approval of an Enhanced Structural Adjustment Facility agreement in 1996.
#
3.30
650
1643
11.40
35.20
53.40
61
79100
agriculture 75%, commerce, industry, and government 25%
Italy, France, Spain, other EU countries, US, Taiwan
600
intermediate manufactures, capital equipment, construction materials, foodstuffs, petroleum products
France, Italy, other EU countries, US, Japan, Thailand
5000
ODA, $NA
?
1 Communaute Financiere Africaine franc (CFAF) = 100 centimes
500.56
calendar year
795
795 km 1.067-m gauge (includes 285 km that are privately owned)
12745
1,236 km
11,509 km (1992 est.)
1120
25
?
?
Brazzaville, Impfondo, Ouesso, Oyo, Pointe-Noire
1
2218
4100
?
34
1
?
3
?
9
?
?
7
14
?
?
18000
primary network consists of microwave radio relay and coaxial cable
satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean)
4
1
0
?
4
8500
Army, Navy (includes Marines), Air Force, National Police
#
582103
296602
25247
110000000
3.80
@Cook Islands
New Zealand
#
A group of islands in the SW Pacific, 2816 km to 3782 km northeast of New
Zealand. They are widely scattered, extending from latitude 8░ to 23░ S and
from longitude 156░ to 167░ W. Consists of two island groups, the Lower
Cooks and the Northern Cooks. First sighted by Spanish navigator Alvaro de
Mendana in 1595
#
[NZ]
Oceania, group of islands in the South Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from Hawaii to New Zealand
240
240
?
?
120
?
200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
200
?
12
none
tropical; moderated by trade winds
low coral atolls in north; volcanic, hilly islands in south
Pacific Ocean 0 m
Te Manga 652 m
negligible
4
22
0
0
74
?
NA
typhoons (November to March)
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Law of the Sea
19561
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
1.11
22.87
5.20
-6.58
?
?
?
?
?
24.70
71.14
69.20
73.10
3.25
Cook Islander(s)
Cook Islander
Polynesian (full blood) 81.3%, Polynesian and European 7.7%, Polynesian and non-European 7.7%, European 2.4%, other 0.9%
#
Christian (majority of populace members of Cook Islands Christian Church)
English (official), Maori
?
?
?
none
Cook Islands
?
?
self-governing parliamentary government in free association with New Zealand; Cook Islands is fully responsible for internal affairs; New Zealand retains responsibility for external affairs, in consultation with the Cook Islands
Avarua
none
Independence: none (became self-governing in free association with New Zealand on 4 August 1965 and has the right at any time to move to full independence by unilateral action)
#
?
Constitution Day, 4 August
4 August 1965
NA
NA years of age; universal adult
Queen ELIZABETH II (of the United Kingdom since 6 February 1952), a hereditary monarch, is represented by Apenera SHORT (since NA); New Zealand High Commissioner Darryl DUNN (since NA 1994), representative of New Zealand was appointed by the New Zealand Government
Prime Minister Sir Geoffrey A. HENRY (since 1 February 1989); Deputy Prime Minister Inatio AKARURU (since 1 February 1989)
#
Cabinet; collectively responsible to Parliament
#
unicameral
Parliament: elections last held 6 March 1994 (next to be held NA 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (25 total) Cook Islands Party 20, Democratic Party 3, Democratic Alliance Party 2
note: the House of Arikis (chiefs) advises on traditional matters, but has no legislative powers
#
High Court
Cook Islands Party, Geoffrey HENRY; Democratic Party, Sir Thomas DAVIS; Democratic Alliance Party, Norman GEORGE
blue, with the flag of the UK in the upper hoist-side quadrant and a large circle of 15 white five-pointed stars (one for every island) centered in the outer half of the flag
Agriculture provides the economic base. The major export earners are fruit, copra, and clothing. Manufacturing activities are limited to a fruit-processing plant and several clothing factories. Economic development is hindered by the isolation of the islands from foreign markets and a lack of natural resources and good transportation links. A large trade deficit is annually made up for by remittances from emigrants and by foreign aid, largely from New Zealand. Current economic development plans call for exploiting the tourism potential and expanding the mining and fishing industries. Despite these plans, the Cook Islands will continue to face severe financial problems.
#
?
?
?
?
?
?
6.20
5810
agriculture 29%, government 27%, services 25%, industry 15%, other 4% (1981)
the individual islands are connected by a combination of satellite earth stations, microwave systems, and VHF and HF radiotelephone; within the islands, service is provided by small exchanges connected to subscribers by open wire, cable, and fiber-optic cable
satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Pacific Ocean)
1
1
1
13000
1
3500
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
@Coral Sea Islands
Australia
#
#
Oceania, islands in the Coral Sea, northeast of Australia
3
3
?
?
3095
?
?
?
200
3
none
tropical
sand and coral reefs and islands (or cays)
Pacific Ocean 0 m
unnamed location on Cato Island 6 m
negligible
0
0
0
0
100
0
no permanent fresh water resources
occasional, tropical cyclones
NA
0
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
Coral Sea Islands Territory
Coral Sea Islands
?
?
territory of Australia administered by the Ministry for Environment, Sport, and Territories
none; administered from Canberra, Australia
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
#
?
#
?
?
#
?
#
?
the flag of Australia is used
no economic activity
Transportation
#
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
none; offshore anchorage only
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
@Costa Rica
0
0$San JosΘ$998$-8407$893000$
#
Guaymi indians inhabited Costa Rica when Columbus 'discovered' it in 1502.
Spanish colonization began in 1561. Independence was gained in 1821. Until
then the population had remained small, but the expansion of the
coffee-market from 1840 put an end to Costa Rica's isolation and immigration
grew steadily. The stagnation of the coffee-export in the early 20th
century, and the increase in population led to mass unemployment and social
unrest. This culminated in the civil war of 1948-49. Since then, however,
there has been little violent social conflict and free political
institutions have been preserved. Despite being a largely agricultural
country, Costa Rica maintains a relatively high standard of living and
social services. The parliament has one legislative house with 57 seats.
Neither the President nor the members of parliament can hold office for more
than four successive years. The country is divided into 7 provinces, 80
cantons, and 329 districts.
#
CR
Middle America, bordering both the Caribbean Sea and the North Pacific Ocean, between Nicaragua and Panama
51100
50660
639
Nicaragua 309 km, Panama 330 km
1290
?
?
200
?
12
none
tropical; dry season (December to April); rainy season (May to November)
coastal plains separated by rugged mountains
Pacific Ocean 0 m
Cerro Chirripo 3,810 m
hydropower potential
6
7
45
34
8
1180
deforestation, largely a result of the clearing of land for cattle ranching; soil erosion
occasional earthquakes, hurricanes along Atlantic coast; frequent flooding of lowlands at onset of rainy season; active volcanoes
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Life Conservation
3463083
35
612624
582566
61
1061703
1038403
4
77773
90014
2.06
23.84
4.14
0.92
1.05
1.05
1.02
0.86
1.02
13.50
75.72
73.31
78.24
2.90
Costa Rican(s)
Costa Rican
white (including mestizo) 96%, black 2%, Indian 1%, Chinese 1%
#
Roman Catholic 95%
Spanish (official), English spoken around Puerto Limon
94.80
94.70
95
Republic of Costa Rica
Costa Rica
Republica de Costa Rica
Costa Rica
democratic republic
San Jose
7 provinces (provincias, singular - provincia); Alajuela, Cartago, Guanacaste, Heredia, Limon, Puntarenas, San Jose
Independence: 15 September 1821 (from Spain)
#
?
Independence Day, 15 September (1821)
9 November 1949
based on Spanish civil law system; judicial review of legislative acts in the Supreme Court; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
18 years of age; universal and compulsory
President Jose Maria FIGUERES Olsen (since 8 May 1994), First Vice President Rodrigo OREAMUNO Blanco (since 8 May 1994), Second Vice President Rebeca GRYNSPAN Mayufis (since 8 May 1994) were elected for four-year terms by universal suffrage; election last held 6 February 1994 (next to be held NA February 1998); results - President FIGUERES (PLN) 49.7%, Miquel Angel RODRIGUEZ (PUSC) 47.5%
?
#
Cabinet selected by the president
#
unicameral
Legislative Assembly (Asamblea Legislativa): elections last held 6 February 1994 (next to be held NA February 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (61 total) PLN 28, PUSC 29, minority parties 4
#
Supreme Court (Corte Suprema), justices are elected for eight-year terms by the Legislative Assembly
National Liberation Party (PLN), Rolando ARAYA; Social Christian Unity Party (PUSC), Rafael Angel CALDERON Fournier; Marxist Popular Vanguard Party (PVP), Humberto VARGAS Carbonell; New Republic Movement (MNR), Sergio Erick ARDON Ramirez; People's Party of Costa Rica (PPC), Lenin CHACON Vargas; Radical Democratic Party (PRD), Juan Jose ECHEVERRIA Brealey; Democratic Force Party (FD), Isaac Felipe AZOFEIFA Bolanos
#
Costa Rican Confederation of Democratic Workers (CCTD), Liberation Party affiliate; Confederated Union of Workers (CUT), Communist Party affiliate; Authentic Confederation of Democratic Workers (CATD), Communist Party affiliate; Chamber of Coffee Growers; National Association for Economic Development (ANFE); Free Costa Rica Movement (MCRL), rightwing militants; National Association of Educators (ANDE); Federation of Public Service Workers (FTSP)
#
AG (observer), BCIE, CACM, ECLAC, FAO, G-77, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, IOM, ITU, LAES, LAIA (observer), NAM (observer), OAS, OPANAL, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNU, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTrO
five horizontal bands of blue (top), white, red (double width), white, and blue, with the coat of arms in a white disk on the hoist side of the red band
Costa Rica's basically stable and progressive economy depends especially on tourism and the export of bananas, coffee, and other agricultural products. Recent trends have been disappointing. Economic growth slipped from 4.3% in 1994 to 2.5% in 1995, the lowest rate of growth since 1991's 2.1%. Inflation rose dramatically to 22.5% from 13.5% in 1994, well above the government's own projection of 18%. Unemployment rose from 4.0% in 1994 to 5.2% in 1995, and substantial underemployment continues. These economic woes are likely to be exacerbated in 1996 by a standby arrangement reached with the IMF on 29 November 1995. To restore fiscal balance, the government agreed to curb inflation, reduce the fiscal deficit, increase domestic savings, and improve public sector efficiency while increasing the role of the private sector. Costa Rica signed a free trade agreement with Mexico in 1994.
#
2.50
2590
8969
?
?
?
22.50
868300
industry and commerce 35.1%, government and services 33%, agriculture 27%, other 4.9% (1985 est.)
5.20
1100
1340
food processing, textiles and clothing, construction materials, fertilizer, plastic products
10.50
1.04
4100
1164
coffee, bananas, sugar, corn, rice, beans, potatoes; beef; timber (depletion of forest resources has resulted in declining timber output)
transshipment country for cocaine and heroin from South America; illicit production of cannabis on small, scattered plots
2400
coffee, bananas, textiles, sugar
US, Germany, Italy, Guatemala, El Salvador, Netherlands, UK, France
3000
raw materials, consumer goods, capital equipment, petroleum
US, Japan, Mexico, Guatemala, Venezuela, Germany
4000
ODA, $NA
?
1 Costa Rican colon (C) = 100 centimos
193.93
calendar year
950
950 km 1.067-m gauge (260 km electrified)
35560
5,608 km
29,952 km (1992 est.)
730
?
176
?
Caldera, Golfito, Moin, Puerto Limon, Puerto Quepos, Puntarenas
?
?
?
?
145
?
2
1
16
97
?
?
?
29
?
?
281042
NA
connected to Central American Microwave System; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean)
71
0
13
?
18
340000
Civil Guard, Coast Guard, Air Section, Rural Assistance Guard; note - the Constitution prohibits armed forces
#
917566
616420
33504
55000000
2
@Cote d'Ivoire
0
0$Abidjan$543$-397$2500000$
1$Yamoussoukro$690$-550$110000$
1$BouakΘ$767$-503$330000$
#
Little is known of the early history of this part of Africa. The coast was
charted in the 15th century by the Portuguese and a flourishing slave trade
soon developed. French missionaries founded a mission at AssiniΘ in 1687.
French influence increased during the 19th century. In 1893 the Ivory Coast
became a French colony, becoming part of French West Africa in 1904. It
became an independent republic in 1960. The 1960 constitution was modified
in 1971, 1975 and 1980. FΘlix Houphouet-Boigny was elected president in 1960
and was re-elected for a sixth term of five years in 1985. Executive power
is in his hands: he appoints all ministers, who are responsible only to him;
he is commander-in-chief of the armed forces. Legislative power lies with
the 147 member National Assembly. The country officially changed its name
from Ivory Coast to C⌠te d'Ivoire in October 1985.
The Ivory Coast is divided into 34 departments.
#
CI
Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Ghana and Liberia
322460
318000
3110
Burkina Faso 584 km, Ghana 668 km, Guinea 610 km, Liberia 716 km, Mali 532 km
515
?
200 nm
200
?
12
none
tropical along coast, semiarid in far north; three seasons - warm and dry (November to March), hot and dry (March to May), hot and wet (June to October)
mostly flat to undulating plains; mountains in northwest
Atlantic Ocean 0 m
Mont Nimba 1,752 m
petroleum, diamonds, manganese, iron ore, cobalt, bauxite, copper
9
4
9
26
52
620
deforestation (most of the country's forests - once the largest in West Africa - have been cleared by the timber industry); water pollution from sewage and industrial and agricultural effluents
coast has heavy surf and no natural harbors; during the rainy season torrential flooding is possible
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83; signed, but not ratified - Desertification
14762445
48
3552270
3462462
50
3828538
3599920
2
164358
154897
2.92
42.48
15.70
2.43
1.03
1.03
1.06
1.06
1.04
82.40
46.73
46.23
47.25
6.15
Ivorian(s)
Ivorian
Baoule 23%, Bete 18%, Senoufou 15%, Malinke 11%, Agni, foreign Africans (mostly Burkinabe and Malians, about 3 million), non-Africans 130,000 to 330,000 (French 30,000 and Lebanese 100,000 to 300,000)
#
indigenous 25%, Muslim 60%, Christian 12%
French (official), 60 native dialects with Dioula the most widely spoken
40.10
49.90
30
Republic of Cote d'Ivoire
Cote d'Ivoire
Republique de Cote d'Ivoire
Cote d'Ivoire
republic; multiparty presidential regime established 1960
3 November 1960; has been amended numerous times, last time November 1990
based on French civil law system and customary law; judicial review in the Constitutional Chamber of the Supreme Court; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
21 years of age; universal
President Henri Konan BEDIE (since 7 December 1993) served the remainder of the term of former President Felix HOUPHOUET-BOIGNY, who died in office after continuous service from November 1960; President BEDIE was elected with 96% of the vote at the last election on 22 October 1995 (next election October 2000); the president is elected for a five-year term by popular vote
Prime Minister Daniel Kablan DUNCAN (since 10 December 1993), appointed by the president
#
Council of Ministers, appointed by the prime minister
#
unicameral
National Assembly (Assemblee Nationale): elections last held 27 November 1995 (next to be held November 2000); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (175 total) PDCI 147, RDR 14, FPI 10, unfilled 4; note - of the unfilled seats, elections for 3 were postponed because of violence in the electoral districts and 1 seat remains contested
#
Supreme Court (Cour Supreme)
Democratic Party of the Cote d'Ivoire (PDCI), Henri Konan BEDIE; Rally of the Republicans (RDR), Djeny KOBINA; Ivorian Popular Front (FPI), Laurent GBAGBO; Ivorian Worker's Party (PIT), Francis WODIE; Ivorian Socialist Party (PSI), Morifere BAMBA; over 20 smaller parties
three equal vertical bands of orange (hoist side), white, and green; similar to the flag of Ireland, which is longer and has the colors reversed - green (hoist side), white, and orange; also similar to the flag of Italy, which is green (hoist side), white, and red; design was based on the flag of France
Cote d'Ivoire is among the world's largest producers and exporters of coffee, cocoa beans, and palm-kernel oil. Consequently, the economy is highly sensitive to fluctuations in international prices for coffee and cocoa and to weather conditions. Despite attempts by the government to diversify, the economy is still largely dependent on agriculture and related industries. After several years of lagging performance, the Ivorian economy began a comeback in 1994, due to improved prices for cocoa and coffee, growth in nontraditional primary exports such as pineapples and rubber, trade and banking liberalization, offshore oil and gas discoveries, and generous external financing and debt rescheduling by multilateral lenders and France. The 50% devaluation of Franc Zone currencies on 12 January 1994 caused a one-time jump in the inflation rate to 32% for 1994, but this rate fell to perhaps 10% in 1995, in part as the economy adjusted to the devaluation. Moreover, government adherence to donor-mandated reforms led to a budget surplus in 1994. Real growth of GDP in 1994 was 1.7%, a significant improvement following several years of negative growth. In 1995 growth picked up to 5%.
#
5
610
9005
37
24
39
10
5718000
over 85% of population engaged in agriculture, forestry, livestock raising; about 11% of labor force are wage earners, nearly half in agriculture and the remainder in government, industry, commerce, and professions
illicit producer of cannabis; mostly for local consumption; some international drug trade; transshipment point for Southwest and Southeast Asian heroin to Europe and occasionally to the US
France, Netherlands, Germany, Italy, Burkina Faso, US, UK
1600.00
food, capital goods, consumer goods, fuel
France, Nigeria, Japan, Netherlands, US, Italy
19000
ODA, $552 million (1993)
?
1 Communaute Financiere Africaine franc (CFAF) = 100 centimes
500.56
calendar year
660
660 km 1.000-meter gauge; 25 km double track
46331
3,579 km
42,752 km (1984 est.)
980
?
?
?
Abidjan, Aboisso, Dabou, San-Pedro
3
27726
34711
container 2, oil tanker 1 (1995 est.)
35
1
2
4
?
10
?
?
6
12
?
?
87700
open-wire lines and microwave radio relay
satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean); 2 coaxial submarine cables
71
0
13
?
18
810000
Army, Navy, Air Force, paramilitary Gendarmerie, Presidential Guard
#
3386638
1762412
157712
140000000
1.40
@Croatia
0
0$Zagreb$4380$1597$930000$
#
#
HV
Southeastern Europe, bordering the Adriatic Sea, between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Slovenia
56538
56410
2073
Bosnia and Herzegovina 932 km, Hungary 329 km, Serbia and Montenegro 266 km (241 km with Serbia; 25 km with Montenego), Slovenia 546 km
5790
?
200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
?
?
?
Eastern Slavonia, which was held by ethnic Serbs during the war, is currently being overseen by the UN Transitional Administration for Eastern Slavonia; reintegration of Eastern Slavonia into Croatia will occur in 1997; although Croatia does not recognize the "Federal Republic of Yugoslavia," both countries have agreed to open consular sections in each other's capitals; Croatia and Italy have not resolved a bilateral issue dating from WWII over property and ethnic minority rights; a border dispute with Slovenia is unresolved
Mediterranean and continental; continental climate predominant with hot summers and cold winters; mild winters, dry summers along coast
geographically diverse; flat plains along Hungarian border, low mountains and highlands near Adriatic coast, coastline, and islands
Adriatic Sea 0 m
Dinara 1,830 m
oil, some coal, bauxite, low-grade iron ore, calcium, natural asphalt, silica, mica, clays, salt
32
20
18
15
15
?
air pollution (from metallurgical plants) and resulting acid rain is damaging the forests; coastal pollution from industrial and domestic waste; widespread casualties and destruction of infrastructure in border areas affected by civil strife
frequent and destructive earthquakes
party to - Air Pollution, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Desertification, Law of the Sea
5004112
18
453142
431118
69
1731200
1716824
13
252897
418931
0.58
9.83
11.33
7.31
1.06
1.05
1.01
0.60
0.95
10.20
72.81
69.13
76.72
1.40
Croat(s)
Croatian
Croat 78%, Serb 12%, Muslim 0.9%, Hungarian 0.5%, Slovenian 0.5%, others 8.1% (1991)
#
Catholic 76.5%, Orthodox 11.1%, Slavic Muslim 1.2%, Protestant 0.4%, others and unknown 10.8%
Serbo-Croatian 96%, other 4% (including Italian, Hungarian, Czechoslovak, and German)
97
99
95
Republic of Croatia
Croatia
Republika Hrvatska
Hrvatska
parliamentary democracy
Zagreb
21 counties (zupanijas, zupanija - singular): Bjelovar-Bilogora, City of Zagreb, Dubrovnik-Neretva, Istra, Karlovac, Koprivnica-Krizevci, Krapina-Zagorje, Lika-Senj, Medimurje, Osijek-Baranja, Pozega-Slavonija, Primorje-Gorski Kotar, Sibenik, Sisak-Moslavina, Slavonski Brod-Posavina, Split-Dalmatia, Varazdin, Virovitica-Podravina, Vukovar-Srijem, Zadar-Knin, Zagreb
Independence: 25 June 1991 (from Yugoslavia)
#
?
Statehood Day, 30 May (1990)
adopted on 22 December 1990
based on civil law system
18 years of age; universal (16 years of age, if employed)
President Franjo TUDJMAN (since 30 May 1990) was elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 4 August 1992 (next to be held NA 1997); results - Franjo TUDJMAN reelected with about 56% of the vote; his opponent Dobroslav PARAGA received 5% of the vote
Prime Minister Zlatko MATESA (since NA November 1995) and Deputy Prime Ministers Mate GRANIC (since 8 September 1992), Ivica KOSTOVIC (since 14 October 1993), Jure RADIC (since NA October 1994), Borislav SKEGRO (since 3 April 1993), and Ljerka MINTAS-HODAS (since November 1995) were appointed by the president
#
Council of Ministers was appointed by the president
#
bicameral parliament Assembly (Sabor)
House of Districts (Zupanije Dom): elections last held 7 and 21 February 1993 (next to be held NA February 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (68 total; 63 elected, 5 presidentially appointed) HDZ 37, HSLS 16, HSS 5, Istrian Democratic Assembly 3, SPH-SDP 1, HNS 1
House of Representatives (Zastupnicki Dom): elections last held 29 October 1995 (next to be held NA 1999); results - HDZ 45.23%, HSS/IDS/HNS/HKDU/SBHS 18.26%, HSLS 11.55%, SDP 8.93%, HSP 5.01%; seats - (127 total) HDZ 75, HSLS 12, HSS 10, SDP 10, IDS 4, HSP 4, HNS 2, SNS 2, HND 1, ASH 1, HKDU 1, SBHS 1, independents 4
#
Supreme Court, judges appointed for eight-year terms by the Judicial Council of the Republic, which is elected by the Chamber of Representatives; Constitutional Court, judges appointed for eight-year terms by the Judicial Council of the Republic, which is elected by the Chamber of Representatives
Croatian Democratic Union (HDZ), Franjo TUDJMAN, president; Croatian Democratic Independents (HND), Stjepan MESIC, president; Croatian Social Liberal Party (HSLS), Vlado GOTOVAC, president; Social Democratic Party of Croatia (SDP), Ivica RACAN; Croatian Party of Rights (HSP), Ante DAPIC; Croatian Peasants' Party (HSS), Josip PANKRETIC; Croatian People's Party (HNS), Radimir CACIC, president; Serbian National Party (SNS), Milan DJUKIC; Action of the Social Democrats of Croatia (ASH), Miko TRIPALO; Croatian Christian Democratic Union (HKDU), Marko VASELICA, president; Istrian Democratic Assembly (IDS), Ivan JACKOVIC; Slanvonsko-Baranja Croatian Party (SBHS)
#
NA
#
CCC, CE (guest), CEI, EBRD, ECE, FAO, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU, NAM (observer), OSCE, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO (applicant)
red, white, and blue horizontal bands with Croatian coat of arms (red and white checkered)
Before the dissolution of Yugoslavia, the Republic of Croatia, after Slovenia, was the most prosperous and industrialized area, with a per capita output perhaps one-third above the Yugoslav average. Croatia faces considerable economic problems stemming from: the legacy of longtime communist mismanagement of the economy; large foreign debt; damage during the internecine fighting to bridges, factories, power lines, buildings, and houses; the large refugee population, both Croatian and Bosnian; and the disruption of economic ties to Serbia and the other former Yugoslav republics, as well as within its own territory. Western aid and investment, especially in the tourist and oil industries, would help restore the economy. The government has been successful in some reform efforts including stabilization policies and has normalized relations with creditors. Yet it still is struggling with privatization of large state enterprises and with bank reform. The draft 1996 budget, which had raised concerns about inflation, capitalizes on the "peace dividend" to boost expenditures on the repair and upgrading of infrastructure.
#
1.50
3280
16413
12.70
30.60
56.70
3.70
1444000
industry and mining 31.1%, agriculture 4.3%, government 19.1% (including education and health), other 45.5% (1993)
18.10
3860.00
3720.00
chemicals and plastics, machine tools, fabricated metal, electronics, pig iron and rolled steel products, aluminum, paper, wood products, construction materials, textiles, shipbuilding, petroleum and petroleum refining, food and beverages
transit point for Southwest Asian heroin to Western Europe
4300.00
machinery and transport equipment 13.6%, miscellaneous manufactures 27.6%, chemicals 14.2%, food and live animals 12.2%, raw materials 6.1%, fuels and lubricants 9.4%, beverages and tobacco 2.7% (1993)
Germany 22.9%, Italy 21.2%, Slovenia 18.3% (1993)
5200
machinery and transport equipment 23.1%, fuels and lubricants 8.8%, food and live animals 9.0%, chemicals 14.2%, miscellaneous manufactured articles 16.0%, raw materials 3.5%, beverages and tobacco 1.4% (1993)
Ground Forces, Naval Forces, Air and Air Defense Forces, Frontier Guard, Home Guard
#
1314718
1046490
34914
?
?
@Cuba
0
0$La Habana$2314$-8236$2096000$
1$Santiago de Cuba$2000$-7582$405000$
#
Cuba was visited by Colombus in 1492. The indigenous indians died out after
Spanish conquest in 1511. Cuba remained Spanish until 1898, when it was
captured by the Americans in the short-lived Spanish-American war. Limited
independence was gained in 1902, with a president as head of government. In
1952, former president Fulgencio Batista took control and established an
increasingly corrupt dictatorship. Fidel Castro, together with Che Guevara,
organized guerrilla activities from 1956. Castro seized power in February
1959. A series of reforms followed, including the limiting of land-ownership
and the nationalization of banks and industries, many of which were
US-owned. Relations with the US became worse leading to a US-imposed trade
embargo, and the failed attempt to invade and overthrow the regime in 1961
(Bay of Pigs). Cuba was forced to turn to the Soviet Union as a trading
partner, which also provided financial and military assistance to Cuba. Cuba
gradually became more and more isolated within Latin America. Since 1976,
Castro, as well as being the leader of the government, commander-in-chief of
the armed forces, and Communist Part chairman, is also president.
Legislative power lies with the National Assembly, with 500 members.
Cuba is divided into 14 provinces and 169 municipal assemblies.
#
C
Caribbean, island between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, south of Florida
110860
110860
29
US Naval Base at Guantanamo Bay 29 km
3735
?
?
200
?
12
US Naval Base at Guantanamo Bay is leased to US and only mutual agreement or US abandonment of the area can terminate the lease
tropical; moderated by trade winds; dry season (November to April); rainy season (May to October)
mostly flat to rolling plains with rugged hills and mountains in the southeast
Caribbean Sea 0 m
Pico Turquino 2,005 m
cobalt, nickel, iron ore, copper, manganese, salt, timber, silica, petroleum
23
6
23
17
31
8960
pollution of Havana Bay; overhunting threatens wildlife populations; deforestation
the east coast is subject to hurricanes from August to October (in general, the country averages about one hurricane every other year); droughts are common
party to - Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution; signed, but not ratified - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Desertification, Marine Life Conservation
10951334
22
1256674
1191652
68
3753343
3736043
10
478630
534992
0.44
13.37
7.39
-1.54
1.06
1.06
1
0.90
1
9
75.05
72.71
77.54
1.52
Cuban(s)
Cuban
mulatto 51%, white 37%, black 11%, Chinese 1%
#
nominally Roman Catholic 85% prior to CASTRO assuming power; Protestants, Jehovah's Witnesses, Jews, and Santeria are also represented
Spanish
95.70
96.20
95.30
Republic of Cuba
Cuba
Republica de Cuba
Cuba
Communist state
Havana
14 provinces (provincias, singular - provincia) and 1 special municipality* (municipio especial); Camaguey, Ciego de Avila, Cienfuegos, Ciudad de La Habana, Granma, Guantanamo, Holguin, Isla de la Juventud*, La Habana, Las Tunas, Matanzas, Pinar del Rio, Sancti Spiritus, Santiago de Cuba, Villa Clara
Independence: 20 May 1902 (from Spain 10 December 1898; administered by the US from 1898 to 1902)
#
?
Rebellion Day, 26 July (1953); Liberation Day, 1 January (1959)
24 February 1976
based on Spanish and American law, with large elements of Communist legal theory; does not accept compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
16 years of age; universal
President of the Council of State and President of the Council of Ministers Fidel CASTRO Ruz (prime minister from February 1959 until 24 February 1976 when office was abolished; president since 2 December 1976) and First Vice President of the Council of State and First Vice President of the Council of Ministers Gen. Raul CASTRO Ruz (since 2 December 1976) were elected by the National Assembly
?
#
Council of Ministers were proposed by the president of the Council of State, appointed by the National Assembly
Council of State: members elected by the National Assembly
#
unicameral
National Assembly of People's Power (Asemblea Nacional del P: elections last held NA February 1993 (next to be held NA 1998); seats - 589 total, elected directly from slates approved by special candidacy commissions
#
People's Supreme Court (Tribunal Supremo Popular), president, vice president, and other judges are elected by the National Assembly
only party - Cuban Communist Party (PCC), Fidel CASTRO Ruz, first secretary
#
?
#
CCC, ECLAC, FAO, G-77, IAEA, ICAO, ICRM, IFAD, IFRCS, ILO, IMO, Inmarsat, Intelsat (nonsignatory user), Interpol, IOC, ISO, ITU, LAES, LAIA (observer), NAM, OAS (excluded from formal participation since 1962), PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNOMIG, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO
five equal horizontal bands of blue (top and bottom) alternating with white; a red equilateral triangle based on the hoist side bears a white five-pointed star in the center
The state retains a primary role in the economy and controls practically all foreign trade. The government has undertaken several reforms in recent years designed to stem excess liquidity, raise labor incentives, and increase the availability of food, consumer goods, and services from depressed levels. The liberalized agricultural markets introduced in October 1994, where state and private farms are authorized to sell any above-quota production at unrestricted prices, have broadened legal consumption alternatives and reduced black market prices. The government's efforts to reduce subsidies to loss-making enterprises and shrink the money supply caused the black market exchange rate to move from a peak of 120 pesos to the dollar in the summer of 1994 to 25-30 pesos to the dollar at yearend 1995. The number of self-employed workers licensed by the government increased more slowly in 1995, from 160,000 at yearend 1994 to 190,000 in July 1995 and to about 210,000 in January 1996. Discussions continue within the leadership over the relative affluence of self-employed workers and the growing inequality of income in what has historically been a strictly egalitarian society. The government released new economic data in 1995 which showed a 35% decline in GDP during 1989-1993, a drop precipitated by the withdrawal of massive Soviet aid and prolonged by Cuba's own economic inefficiencies. The decline in GDP apparently was halted in 1994, and government officials claim that GDP increased by 2.5% in 1995. Export earnings rose by 20% in 1995 to $1.6 billion, largely on the strength of higher world prices for key commodities and increased production of nickel through joint ventures with a Canadian firm. Higher export revenues and new credits from European firms and Mexico enabled Havana to increase its imports for the first time in six years. Imports rose 21% to almost $2.4 billion, or 30% of the 1989 level. Officials have sharply criticized provisions of legislation under consideration in the US Congress, whi
ch aims to curtail third-country investment in expropriated US properties in Cuba and deny official assistance to Havana.
#
2.50
600
6571
7
30
63
?
4710000
services and government 30%, industry 22%, agriculture 20%, commerce 11%, construction 10%, transportation and communications 7% (June 1990)
?
?
?
sugar, petroleum, food, tobacco, textiles, chemicals, paper and wood products, metals (particularly nickel), cement, fertilizers, consumer goods, agricultural machinery
6
3.99
12000
1022
sugarcane, tobacco, citrus, coffee, rice, potatoes and other tubers, beans; livestock
?
1600.00
sugar, nickel, shellfish, tobacco, medical products, citrus, coffee
Canada 15%, China 15%, Russia 15% (1995 est.)
2400
petroleum, food, machinery, chemicals
Spain 15%, Mexico 15%, Russia 10%, (1995 est.)
9100
ODA, $NA
?
1 Cuban peso (Cu$) = 100 centavos
1
calendar year
4677
4,677 km 1.435-m gauge (132 km electrified)
26500
14,575 km
11,925 km (1996 est.)
240
?
?
?
Cienfuegos, La Habana, Manzanillo, Mariel, Matanzas, Nuevitas, Santiago de Cuba
41
220870
310169
cargo 17, chemical tanker 1, liquefied gas tanker 4, oil tanker 9, passenger-cargo 1, refrigerated cargo 9
156
7
7
14
9
87
?
?
1
31
?
?
430000
NA
satellite earth station - 1 Intersputnik (Atlantic Ocean Region)
150
5
0
2140000
58
2500000
Revolutionary Armed Forces (FAR) includes ground forces, Revolutionary Navy (MGR), Air and Air Defense Force (DAAFAR), Territorial Troops Militia (MTT), and Youth Labor Army (EJT); Interior Ministry Border Guards (TGF)
#
3053431
1898644
65182
?
4
@Cyprus
0
0$Nicosie$3520$3336$120000$
#
Greek colonists arrived in 1200 BC. Cyprus was under Roman rule from 58 BC
until 395 AD. It belonged to the Byzantine Empire from then until 1191. A
feudal monarchy was then established until 1489, when Cyprus was occupied by
the Venetians. The Turks held control from 1571 until ceding the island to
Britain in 1878. It was made a British colony in 1925 and became an
independent republic in 1960. The island was virtually partitioned in 1974
following a Greek-supported coup and invasion by Turkey. The northern part
of the island declared itself to be the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus
in 1983, but has not been recognized internationally. The constitution
foresees a president, chosen by general election for a 5-year term. The
vice-president must be a Turkish-Cypriot. Together they choose a cabinet of
7 Greek- and 3 Turkish-Cypriots. Legislative power rests with the elected
House of Representatives, with 35 Greek- and 15 Turkish-Cypriots.
Cyprus is divided into 6 districts.
#
CY
Middle East, island in the Mediterranean Sea, south of Turkey
9250
9240
?
?
648
?
200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
?
?
12
1974 hostilities divided the island into two de facto autonomous areas, a Greek area controlled by the Cypriot Government (59% of the island's land area) and a Turkish-Cypriot area (37% of the island), that are separated by a UN buffer zone (4% of the island); there are two UK sovereign base areas within the Greek Cypriot portion of the island
temperate, Mediterranean with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters
central plain with mountains to north and south; scattered but significant plains along southern coast
water resource problems (no natural reservoir catchments, seasonal disparity in rainfall, and most potable resources concentrated in the Turkish Cypriot area); water pollution from sewage and industrial wastes; coastal degradation; loss of wildlife habitats from urbanization
moderate earthquake activity
party to - Air Pollution, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Climate Change
744609
25
97400
92110
64
240716
238039
11
33340
43004
1.11
15.39
7.66
3.38
1.05
1.06
1.01
0.78
1
8.40
76.26
74.11
78.52
2.19
Cypriot(s)
Cypriot
#
Greek Orthodox 78%, Muslim 18%, Maronite, Armenian Apostolic, and other 4%
Greek, Turkish, English
94
98
91
Republic of Cyprus
Cyprus
?
?
republic
Nicosia
6 districts; Famagusta, Kyrenia, Larnaca, Limassol, Nicosia, Paphos; note - Turkish area administrative divisions include Kyrenia, all but a small part of Famagusta, and small parts of Nicosia and Larnaca
Independence: 16 August 1960 (from UK)
note: Turkish area proclaimed self-rule on NA February 1975 from Republic of Cyprus
#
?
Independence Day, 1 October
16 August 1960; negotiations to create the basis for a new or revised constitution to govern the island and to better relations between Greek and Turkish Cypriots have been held intermittently; in 1975 Turkish Cypriots created their own constitution and governing bodies within the "Turkish Federated State of Cyprus," which was renamed the "Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus" in 1983; a new constitution for the Turkish area passed by referendum on 5 May 1985
based on common law, with civil law modifications
18 years of age; universal
President Glafcos CLERIDES (since 28 February 1993) was elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 14 February 1993 (next to be held NA February 1998); results - Glafcos CLERIDES 50.3%, Yeoryios VASSILIOU 49.7%
?
#
Council of Ministers was appointed jointly by the president and vice president
note: Rauf R. DENKTASH has been "president" of the Turkish area since 13 February 1975 (president is elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage); Hakki ATUN has been "prime minister" of the Turkish area since 1 January 1994; there is a Council of Ministers (cabinet) in the Turkish area; elections last held 15 and 22 April 1995 (next to be held NA April 2000); results - Rauf R. DENKTASH 62.5%, Dervis EROGLU 37.5%
#
unicameral. Greek area: House of Representatives (Vouli Antiprosopon): elections last held 19 May 1991 (next to be held May 1996); results - DISY 35.8%, AKEL (Communist) 30.6%, DIKO 19.5%, EDEK 10.9%; others 3.2%; seats - (56 total) DISY 20, AKEL (Communist) 18, DIKO 11, EDEK 7. Turkish area: Assembly of the Republic (Cumhuriyet Meclisi): elections last held 12 December 1993 (next to be held NA); results - UBP 29.9%, DP 29.2%, CTP 24.2% TKP 13.3%, others 3.4%; seats - (50 total) UBP (conservative) 15, DP 16, CTP 13, TKP 5, UDP 1
#
Supreme Court, judges are appointed by the Supreme Council of Judicature. There is also a Supreme Court in the Turkish area
Greek area: Progressive Party of the Working People (AKEL, Communist Party), Dimitrios CHRISTOFIAS; Democratic Rally (DISY), Ioannis MATSIS; Democratic Party (DIKO), Spyros KYPRIANOU; United Democratic Union of the Center (EDEK), Vassos LYSSARIDIS; Socialist Democratic Renewal Movement (ADISOK), Mikhalis PAPAPETROU; Liberal Party, Nikolaos ROLANDIS; Free Democrats, Yeoryios VASSILIOU; New Horizons, Nikolaos KOUTSOU, secretary general. Turkish area: National Unity Party (UBP), Dervis EROGLU; Communal Liberation Party (TKP), Mustafa AKINCI; Republican Turkish Party (CTP), Mehmet ALI TALAT; New Cyprus Party (YKP), Alpay DURDURAN; Free Democratic Party (HDP), Ismet KOTAK; Nationalist Justice Party (MAP), Zorlu TORE; Unity and Sovereignty Party (BEP), Arif Salih KIRDAG; Democratic Party (DP), Serdar DENKTASH; National Birth Party (UDP), Enver EMIN; the HDP, MAP, and VP merged under the label National Struggle Unity Party (MMBP) to compete in the 12 December 1993 legislative election
#
United Democratic Youth Organization (EDON, Communist controlled); Union of Cyprus Farmers (EKA, Communist controlled); Cyprus Farmers Union (PEK, pro-West); Pan-Cyprian Labor Federation (PEO, Communist controlled); Confederation of Cypriot Workers (SEK, pro-West); Federation of Turkish Cypriot Labor Unions (Turk-Sen); Confederation of Revolutionary Labor Unions (Dev-Is)
white with a copper-colored silhouette of the island (the name Cyprus is derived from the Greek word for copper) above two green crossed olive branches in the center of the flag; the branches symbolize the hope for peace and reconciliation between the Greek and Turkish communities. The Turkish Cypriot flag has a horizontal red stripe at the top and bottom between which is a red crescent and red star on a white field
The Greek Cypriot economy is small and prosperous, but highly susceptible to external shocks. Industry contributes 25% to GDP and employs 26% of the labor force, while the service sector contributes 70% to GDP and employs 62% of the labor force. After surging 9.7% in 1992, economic growth slowed to 1.6% in 1993 - its lowest level in two decades - because of the decline in tourist arrivals associated with the recession in Western Europe, Cyprus' main trading partner, and the loss in export competitiveness due to a sharp rise in unit labor costs. However, real GDP picked up in 1994 and 1995, as inflation fell from 4.7% to about 3%. Economic prospects appear favorable for 1996: real GDP is likely to grow between 3% and 4%, and inflation is likely to rise slightly to 3.5%-4.5%. The Turkish Cypriot economy has less than one-third the per capita GDP of the south. Because it is recognized only by Turkey, it has had much difficulty arranging foreign financing, and foreign firms have hesitated to invest there. The economy remains heavily dependent on agriculture and government service, which together employ about half of the work force. Moreover, the small, vulnerable economy has suffered because the Turkish lira is legal tender. Economic growth sharply dropped during 1994 because of the severe economic crisis affecting the mainland, and inflation soared to 215%. To compensate for the economy's weakness, Turkey provides direct and indirect aid to nearly every sector; financial support has risen and now equals in value about one-third of Turkish Cypriot GDP.
#
5
11588
8629
5.60
24.90
69.50
3
294100
services 61.5%, industry 26%, agriculture 12.5% (1994)
2.70
0
0
food, beverages, textiles, chemicals, metal products, tourism, wood products
transit point for heroin via air routes and container traffic to Europe, especially from Lebanon and Turkey, also some cocaine transits en route to Russia
1026
citrus, potatoes, grapes, wine, cement, clothing and shoes
open wire, fiber-optic cable, and microwave radio relay
tropospheric scatter; 3 coaxial and 5 fiber-optic submarine cables; satellite earth stations - 3 Intelsat (1 Atlantic Ocean and 2 Indian Ocean), 2 Eutelsat, 2 Intersputnik, and 1 Arabsat
13
14
0
?
2
182000
Greek area: Greek Cypriot National Guard (GCNG; includes air and naval elements), Greek Cypriot Police. Turkish area: Turkish Cypriot Security Force
#
190372
130880
5749
493000000
5.60
@Czech Republic
0
0$Praha$5008$1442$1214000$
1$Olomouc$4963$1720$110000$
#
Czechoslovakia is made up of Bohemia, Moravia, and Slovakia. These were part
of the Great Moravian Empire in the early Middle Ages. Following the
collapse of the empire, Slovakia was overrun by the Magyars, while Bohemia
and Moravia became part of the Holy Roman Empire, and later the Habsburg
Empire of Austro-Hungary. Czechoslovakia was formed after the defeat of
Austro-Hungary in 1918. It was occupied by Germany from 1939 until 1945,
when it was liberated by the Soviet Union. It became a people's republic
under communist control in 1948. Attempts to liberalize the country by
Alexander Dubcek in 1968 resulted in its invasion by Warsaw Pact troops.
Attempts at political and economic reform were renewed in 1988. Attempts at
political and economic reform were renewed in 1988. These led to the
collapse of the communist regime in 1989. In June 1990, free elections were
held for the 300-strong Federal Parliament.
Czechoslovakia consists of 2 federal republics, the Czech Socialist
republic, and the Slovak Socialist Republic, and a total of 12 regions.
#
CR
Central Europe, southeast of Germany
78703
78645
1880
Austria 362 km, Germany 646 km, Poland 658 km, Slovakia 214 km
0
?
?
?
?
?
Liechtenstein claims restitution for 1,600 sq km of Czech territory confiscated from its royal family in 1918; Sudeten German claims for restitution of property confiscated in connection with their expulsion after World War II versus the Czech Republic claims that restitution does not precede February 1948 when the Communists seized power; unresolved property issues with Slovakia over redistribution of property of the former Czechoslovak federal government
Bohemia in the west consists of rolling plains, hills, and plateaus surrounded by low mountains; Moravia in the east consists of very hilly country
Elbe River 115 m
Snezka 1,602 m
hard coal, soft coal, kaolin, clay, graphite
?
?
?
?
?
?
air and water pollution in areas of northwest Bohemia and in northern Moravia around Ostrava present health risks; acid rain damaging forests
NA
party to - Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Law of the Sea
10321120
18
965861
918745
68
3519753
3524913
14
526841
865007
-0.03
10.39
10.89
0.24
1.06
1.05
1
0.61
0.94
8.40
73.76
70.08
77.65
1.38
Czech(s)
Czech
Czech 94.4%, Slovak 3%, Polish 0.6%, German 0.5%, Gypsy 0.3%, Hungarian 0.2%, other 1%
#
atheist 39.8%, Roman Catholic 39.2%, Protestant 4.6%, Orthodox 3%, other 13.4%
Czech, Slovak
99
?
?
Czech Republic
Czech Republic
Ceska Republika
Cechy
parliamentary democracy
Prague
8 regions (kraje, kraj - singular); Jihocesky, Jihomoravsky, Praha, Severocesky, Severomoravsky, Stredocesky, Vychodocesky, Zapadocesky
Independence: 1 January 1993 (from Czechoslovakia)
#
?
National Liberation Day, 8 May; Founding of the Republic, 28 October
ratified 16 December 1992; effective 1 January 1993
civil law system based on Austro-Hungarian codes; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction; legal code modified to bring it in line with Organization on Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) obligations and to expunge Marxist-Leninist legal theory
18 years of age; universal
President Vaclav HAVEL (since 26 January 1993) was elected for a five-year term by the Parliament; election last held 26 January 1993 (next to be held NA January 1998); results - Vaclav HAVEL was elected
Prime Minister Vaclav KLAUS (since NA June 1992) was appointed by the president; Deputy Prime Ministers Ivan KOCARNIK (since NA June 1992), Josef LUX (since NA June 1992), Jan KALVODA (since NA June 1992)
#
Cabinet was appointed by the president on recommendation of the prime minister
#
bicameral Parliament (Parlament)
Senate (Senate): elections to be held 15-16 November 1996 (next to be held NA); seats (81 total)
Chamber of Deputies (Snemovna Poslancu): elections last held 5-6 June 1992 (next to be held 31 May-1 June 1996); results - percent of vote by party NA given breakup and realignment of all parliamentary opposition parties since 1992; seats - (200 total) governing coalition (ODS 65, KDS 10, ODA 16, KDU-CSL 15), opposition (CSSD 18, LB 25, KSCM 10, LSU 9, LSNS 5, CMUS 9, SPR-RSC 6, independents 12)
#
Supreme Court, chairman and deputy chairmen are appointed by the president; Constitutional Court, chairman and deputy chairmen are appointed by the president
governing coalition: Civic Democratic Party (ODS), Vaclav KLAUS, chairman; Christian Democratic Party (KDS), Ivan PILIP, chairman; Civic Democratic Alliance (ODA), Jan KALVODA, chairman; Christian Democratic Union/Czech People's Party (KDU-CSL), Josef LUX, chairman; note - KDS was to merge with ODS in March 1996
opposition: Czech Social Democrats (CSSD - left opposition), Milos ZEMAN, chairman; Left Bloc (LB - left opposition), Jaroslav ORTMAN, chairman; Communist Party (KSCM - left opposition), Miroslav GREBENICEK, chairman; Liberal Social Union (LSU - left opposition), Frantisek TRNKA, chairman, note - may not still be in existence; Liberal National Social Party (LSNS - center party), Vavrinec BODENLOS, chairman; Bohemian-Moravian Center Union (CMUS - center party), Jan JEGLA, chairman; Assembly for the Republic (SPR-RSC - right radical), Miroslav SLADEK, chairman
#
Czech-Moravian Chamber of Trade Unions; Civic Movement
#
Australia Group, BIS, CCC, CE (guest), CEI, CERN, EBRD, ECE, EU (applicant), FAO, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Interpol, IOC, IOM (observer), ISO, ITU, NACC, NSG, OECD, OSCE, PCA, PFP, UN, UN Security Council (temporary), UNCRO, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNOMIG, UNOMIL, UNPROFOR, UPU, WEU (associate partner), WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO, ZC
two equal horizontal bands of white (top) and red with a blue isosceles triangle based on the hoist side (almost identical to the flag of the former Czechoslovakia)
The Czech Republic, which separated from Slovakia on 1 January 1993, emerged from recession with 2.6% growth in 1994 and 5% growth in 1995. Inflation in 1994-95 was cut in half; unemployment was kept at about 3%; the budget was balanced; and exports were reoriented to the EU. Prague's mass privatization program, including its innovative distribution of ownership shares to Czech citizens via "coupon vouchers," has made the most rapid progress in Eastern Europe. About 80% of the economy is wholly or partially in private hands. Because of its progress on reform, the Czech Republic in 1995 became the first post-Communist member of the OECD. Its solid economic performance also led Standard and Poor's to upgrade the country's sovereign credit rating to "A" and attracted nearly $5.3 billion in direct foreign investment to Czech industry between 1990 and September 1995. The Czech crown became convertible for current account transactions in October 1995. Czech companies increasingly are using the international capital market to fund capital investment, and foreign currency reserves totaled $13.9 billion at the end of 1995. Prague's biggest macroeconomic concern now is limiting the inflationary effect of these large capital inflows. The Czech economy also still faces microeconomic problems. Prague has promised to strengthen its bankruptcy law and improve the transparency of stock market operations in 1996, but some changes probably will not take effect until some time after the parliamentary elections of mid-1996 and will depend largely on voluntary compliance. Prague forecasts a balanced budget, 5.5% GDP growth, 2.8% unemployment, and 8.1% inflation for 1996.
#
5
3870
39943
5.80
40.70
53.50
9.10
5389000
industry 37.9%, agriculture 8.1%, construction 8.8%, communications and other 45.2% (1990)
2.90
16500
16200
fuels, ferrous metallurgy, machinery and equipment, coal, motor vehicles, glass, armaments
transshipment point for Southwest Asian heroin and Latin American cocaine to Western Europe
17400
manufactured goods, machinery and transport equipment, chemicals, fuels, minerals, metals, agricultural products
Germany 32.4%, Slovakia 16.1%, Austria 6.7%, Poland 5.3%, Italy 4%, Russia 3.3%, Netherlands 2.8%, France 2.6%, UK 2.2%, Hungary 2.1%, US 1.8%, Belgium 1.5% (January-September 1995)
21300
machinery and transport equipment, manufactured goods, chemicals, fuels and lubricants, raw materials, agricultural products
Germany 26%, Slovakia 13.2%, Russia 9.2%, Austria 7%, Italy 5.6%, France 4.1%, US 3.8%, Poland 3.1%, Netherlands 2.9%, UK 2.9%, Switzerland 2.1%, Belgium 2.0% (January-September 1995)
14900
ODA, $27 million (1993)
?
1 koruna (Kc) = 100 haleru
26.97
calendar year
9413
9,316 km 1.435-m standard gauge (2640 km electrified)
97 km several narrow gauges (1995)
55557
NA km
NA km
?
?
?
5400
Decin, Prague, Usti nad Labem
10
155946
251624
bulk 5, cargo 5 (1995 est.)
116
2
9
13
?
5
1
3
10
32
41
?
3349539
NA
satellite earth stations - 2 Intersputnik (Atlantic and Indian Ocean Regions)
?
?
?
?
?
?
Army, Air and Air Defense Forces, Civil Defense, Railroad Units
#
2724607
2074331
88418
931000000
2.50
@Denmark
0
0$K°benhavn$5568$1257$1339000$
1$Arhus$5614$1018$267000$
#
Although a fishing and trading place has been at the site of Copenhagen
since ancient times, the founding of the city is attributed to Bishop
Absalon (1128-1201). Vikings, many from Denmark, visited most of the west
European coast, sometimes on plundering raids and sometimes to settle. Under
Knoete the Great (994-1035) the Kingdom of Denmark consisted of Denmark,
Norway, and England. A second period of expansion led to the union of Kalmar
(1397), when Sweden, Norway, parts of Finland, the Faeroes, Greenland, and
Iceland belonged to Denmark. The country remained a major power in northern
Europe until the 17th century, when it lost its lands in southern Sweden.
Norway separated in 1815, followed by Schleswig Holstein in 1864. A 63% vote
in favour of Denmark becoming a member of the EC was the result of a
referendum held in 1972. Membership commenced on 1 January 1973. Denmark has
been a constitutional monarchy and parliamentary state since 1849. The
present constitution dates from 1953. Legislative power is in the hands of
the monarch and the single-house parliament, or Folketing, with 179 seats
(175 from mainland Denmark and 2 each from the Faeroe Islands and Greenland)
The country is divided into 14 counties and two cities (Copenhagen and
Frederiksberg).
#
DK
Northern Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea and the North Sea, on a peninsula north of Germany
43070
42370
68
Germany 68 km
3379
4
200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
?
200
3
Rockall continental shelf dispute involving Iceland, Ireland, and the UK (Ireland and the UK have signed a boundary agreement in the Rockall area)
temperate; humid and overcast; mild, windy winters and cool summers
low and flat to gently rolling plains
Lammefjord -7 m
Ejer Bavnehoj 173 m
petroleum, natural gas, fish, salt, limestone
61
0
6
12
21
4300
air pollution, principally from vehicle emissions; nitrogen and phosphorus pollution of the North Sea; drinking and surface water becoming polluted from animal wastes
flooding is a threat in some areas of the country (e.g., parts of Jutland, along the southern coast of the island of Lolland) that are protected from the sea by a system of dikes
party to - Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Desertification, Law of the Sea
5249632
17
469672
446907
67
1789552
1738870
16
330396
474235
0.38
12.24
10.42
2
1.06
1.05
1.03
0.70
0.97
4.80
77.30
73.78
81.01
1.67
Dane(s)
Danish
Scandinavian, Eskimo, Faroese, German
#
Evangelical Lutheran 91%, other Protestant and Roman Catholic 2%, other 7% (1988)
Danish, Faroese, Greenlandic (an Eskimo dialect), German (small minority)
note: see separate entries for the Faroe Islands and Greenland, which are part of the Danish realm and self-governing administrative divisions
Independence: 10th century first organized as a unified state; in 1849 became a constitutional monarchy
#
?
Birthday of the Queen, 16 April (1940)
1849 was the original constitution; there was a major overhaul 5 June 1953, allowing for a unicameral legislature and a female chief of state
civil law system; judicial review of legislative acts; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with reservations
18 years of age; universal
Queen MARGRETHE II (since NA January 1972) is a constitutional monarch; Heir Apparent Crown Prince FREDERIK, elder son of the queen (born 26 May 1968)
Prime Minister Poul Nyrup RASMUSSEN (since NA January 1993) was appointed by the queen
#
Cabinet was appointed by the queen
#
unicameral
Parliament (Folketing): elections last held 21 September 1994 (next to be held by December 1998); results - Social Democrats 34.6%, Liberals 23.3%, Conservatives 15.0%, Social People's Party 7.3%, Progress Party 6.4%, Radical Liberals 4.6%, Unity Party 3.1%, Center Democrats 2.8%, Christian People's Party 1.8%; seats - (179 total) Social Democrats 63, Liberals 44, Conservatives 28, Social People's Party 13, Progress Party 11, Radical Liberals 8, Unity Party 6, Center Democrats 5, independent 1
#
Supreme Court, judges are appointed by the monarch for life
Social Democratic Party, Poul Nyrup RASMUSSEN; Conservative Party, Hans ENGELL; Liberal Party, Uffe ELLEMANN-JENSEN; Socialist People's Party, Holger K. NIELSEN; Progress Party, Group Chairman Kim BEHNKE and Policy Spokesman Jan Kopke CHRISTENSEN; Center Democratic Party, Mimi Stilling JAKOBSEN; Radical Liberal Party, Marianne JELVED; Christian People's Party, Jann SJURSEN; Danish Workers' Party, Common Cause, Preben Moller HANSEN; Unity Party
red with a white cross that extends to the edges of the flag; the vertical part of the cross is shifted to the hoist side, and that design element of the Dannebrog (Danish flag) was subsequently adopted by the other Nordic countries of Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden
This thoroughly modern economy features high-tech agriculture, up-to-date small-scale and corporate industry, extensive government welfare measures, comfortable living standards, and high dependence on foreign trade. Denmark is self-sufficient in food production. The new center-left coalition government will concentrate on reducing the persistently high unemployment rate and the budget deficit as well as following the previous government's policies of maintaining low inflation and a current account surplus. In the face of recent international market pressure on the Danish krone, the coalition has also vowed to maintain a stable currency. The coalition hopes to lower marginal income taxes while maintaining overall tax revenues; boost industrial competitiveness through labor market and tax reforms and increased research and development funds; and improve welfare services for the neediest while cutting paperwork and delays. Prime Minister RASMUSSEN's reforms will focus on adapting Denmark to the criteria for European integration by 1999; Copenhagen has won from the European Union (EU) the right to opt out of the European Monetary Union (EMU) if a national referendum rejects it. Denmark is, in fact, one of the few EU countries likely to fit into the EMU on time. Denmark is weathering the current worldwide slump better than many West European countries. Although unemployment is high, it remains stable compared to most European countries.
#
3.10
30300
159064
3
23.50
73.50
2.40
2553900
private services 37.1%, government services 30.4%, manufacturing and mining 20%, construction 6.3%, agriculture, forestry, and fishing 5.6%, electricity/gas/water 0.6% (1991)
9.50
56500
64400.00
food processing, machinery and equipment, textiles and clothing, chemical products, electronics, construction, furniture, and other wood products, shipbuilding
-2.50
10.03
32000
5835
grain, potatoes, rape, sugar beets; meat, dairy products; fish
?
39600
meat and meat products, dairy products, transport equipment (shipbuilding), fish, chemicals, industrial machinery
EU 49.4% (Germany 22.4%, UK 8.2%), Sweden 10.4%, Norway 6.5%, US 5.5%, Japan 4.1%, FSU 1.7% (1994)
34000
petroleum, machinery and equipment, chemicals, grain and foodstuffs, textiles, paper
EU 51% (Germany 22%, UK 6.5%), Sweden 11.6%, Norway 5.1%, US 5.2%, Japan 3.5%, FSU 1.7% (1994)
40900
?
ODA, $1.34 billion (1993)
1 Danish krone (DKr) = 100 oere
5.65
calendar year
2848
2,848 km 1.435-m gauge (326 km electrified; 760 km double track) (1995)
buried and submarine cables and microwave radio relay form trunk network
19 submarine coaxial cables; satellite earth stations - 7 Intelsat, NA Eutelsat, and 1 Inmarsat (Atlantic and Indian Ocean Regions); note - Denmark shares the Inmarsat earth station with the other Nordic countries (Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden)
3
2
0
?
2
2040000
Royal Danish Army, Royal Danish Navy, Royal Danish Air Force, Home Guard
#
1338791
1150996
34324
3200000000
1.80
@Djibouti
0
0$Djibouti$1160$4315$250000$
#
The first french settlements in Djibouti date from the 1850's. France gained
control of the area around the port of Obock in 1862 by purchasing it from
the Afars. Control was expanded throughout the rest of the century. Djibouti
became a French overseas area in 1967, its old name of French Somaliland
being replaced by Afar and Issa. Rivalry between the Afars (ethnically
related to Ethiopians) and Issas (related to Somalis) led to armed conflicts
in 1976. In May 1977, a referendum was held in which a 98% vote in favour of
independence from France was returned. Djibouti became the last French
colony on the African continent to gain independence, on 27 June 1977, when
it became a presidential republic. It has a single legislative house, the
National Assembly, with 65 seats (33 for Issas, 30 for Afars, and 2 for
Arabs). The country is divided into 5 'cercles', or districts.
#
?
Eastern Africa, bordering the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea, between Eritrea and Somalia
22000
21980
508
Eritrea 113 km, Ethiopia 337 km, Somalia 58 km
314
24
?
200
?
12
none
desert; torrid, dry
coastal plain and plateau separated by central mountains
Asal -155 m
Mousa Alli 2,028 m
geothermal areas
0
0
9
0
91
?
inadequate supplies of potable water; desertification
earthquakes; droughts; occasional cyclonic disturbances from the Indian Ocean bring heavy rains and flash floods
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Ship Pollution; signed, but not ratified - Desertification
427642
43
91687
91242
55
123699
110530
2
5389
5095
1.50
42.50
15.26
-12.28
1.03
1
1.12
1.06
1.07
106.70
50.15
48.24
52.12
6.08
Djiboutian(s)
Djiboutian
Somali 60%, Afar 35%, French, Arab, Ethiopian, and Italian 5%
#
Muslim 94%, Christian 6%
French (official), Arabic (official), Somali, Afar
multiparty constitution approved in referendum 4 September 1992
based on French civil law system, traditional practices, and Islamic law
NA years of age; universal adult
President HASSAN GOULED Aptidon (since 24 June 1977); election last held 7 May 1993 (next to be held NA 1999); results - President HASSAN GOULED reelected to a six-year term by universal suffrage
Prime Minister BARKAT Gourad Hamadou (since 30 September 1978)
#
Council of Ministers is responsible to the president
#
unicameral
Chamber of Deputies (Chambre des Deputes): elections last held 18 December 1992; results - RPP (the ruling party) dominated; seats - (65 total) RPP 65
two equal horizontal bands of light blue (top) and light green with a white isosceles triangle based on the hoist side bearing a red five-pointed star in the center
The economy is based on service activities connected with the country's strategic location and status as a free trade zone in northeast Africa. Two-thirds of the inhabitants live in the capital city, the remainder being mostly nomadic herders. Scanty rainfall limits crop production to fruits and vegetables, and most food must be imported. Djibouti provides services as both a transit port for the region and an international transshipment and refueling center. It has few natural resources and little industry. The nation is, therefore, heavily dependent on foreign assistance (an important supplement to GDP) to help support its balance of payments and to finance development projects. An unemployment rate of over 30% continues to be a major problem. Per capita consumption dropped an estimated 35% over the last six years because of recession, civil war, and a high population growth rate (including immigrants and refugees).
#
-3
830
355
3
21
76
6
282000
agriculture 75%, industry 11%, services 14% (1991 est.)
30
164
201
limited to a few small-scale enterprises, such as dairy products and mineral-water bottling
?
0.09
170
398
fruits, vegetables; goats, sheep, camels
?
184
hides and skins, coffee (in transit)
Somalia 48%, Yemen 42%
384
foods, beverages, transport equipment, chemicals, petroleum products
France, UK, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, South Korea
227
ODA, $NA
?
1 Djiboutian franc (DF) = 100 centimes
177.72
calendar year
97
97 km 1.000-m gauge
Democratic Renewal Party (PRD), Mohamed Jama ELABE; Democratic National Party (PND), ADEN Robleh Awaleh
2879
363 km
2,516 km (1991 est.)
?
?
?
?
Djibouti
1
1369
3030
?
11
1
1
?
?
2
?
?
2
5
?
?
7200
microwave radio relay network
submarine cable to Saudi Arabia; satellite earth stations - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean) and 1 Arabsat
2
2
0
?
1
17000
Djibouti National Army (includes Navy and Air Force), National Security Force (Force Nationale de Securite), National Police Force
#
102528
60076
?
26000000
?
@Dominica
0
$0$Roseau$1530$-6140$20755$
#
Dominica is the Latin name for Sunday, the day on which this island was
discovered by Columbus in November, 1493. The island was awarded to Great
Britain after the Seven Years War (1763). It became a crown colony in 1898
and formed part of the Leeward Islands until 31 December 1939. It was
subsequently part of the Windward Islands until 31 December 1959. Self
government was granted in 1967 and on 1 March of that year Dominica became a
member of the West Indian Associated States. Full independence was achieved
on 3 November 1978. Dominica was devastated by Hurricane David on 30 August
1979, when the banana plantations were destroyed. The economic consequen ces
helped lead to two attempted coups in 1980 and 1981. Dominica is a
multiparty republic with one legislative house (the House of Assembly) of 31
seats. The 31 seats are filled by 21 elected representatives, 9 senators,
and the president. Executive power is in the hands of the president who is
selected every 5 years by the House of Assembly; a maximum of two terms can
be served.
Each of Dominica's 10 parishes is named after a saint: St. Andrew, St.
David, St. George, St. John, St. Joseph, St. Luke, St. Mark, St. Patrick,
St. Paul, St. Peter.
#
WD
Caribbean, island between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, about one-half of the way from Puerto Rico to Trinidad and Tobago
750
750
?
?
148
24
?
200
?
12
none
tropical; moderated by northeast trade winds; heavy rainfall
rugged mountains of volcanic origin
Caribbean Sea 0 m
Morne Diablatins 1,447 m
timber
9
13
3
41
34
?
NA
flash floods are a constant threat; destructive hurricanes can be expected during the late summer months
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Environmental Modification, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection, Whaling
82926
28
11986
11521
64
27206
25841
8
2608
3764
0.38
18.38
5.31
-9.32
1.05
1.04
1.05
0.69
1.02
9.60
77.40
74.55
80.40
1.93
Dominican(s)
Dominican
black, Carib Indians
#
Roman Catholic 77%, Protestant 15% (Methodist 5%, Pentecostal 3%, Seventh-Day Adventist 3%, Baptist 2%, other 2%), none 2%, unknown 1%, other 5%
English (official), French patois
94
94
94
Commonwealth of Dominica
Dominica
?
?
parliamentary democracy
Roseau
10 parishes; Saint Andrew, Saint David, Saint George, Saint John, Saint Joseph, Saint Luke, Saint Mark, Saint Patrick, Saint Paul, Saint Peter
Independence: 3 November 1978 (from UK)
#
?
Independence Day, 3 November (1978)
3 November 1978
based on English common law
18 years of age; universal
President Crispin Anselm SORHAINDO (since 25 October 1993) was elected for a five-year term by the House of Assembly; election last held 4 October 1993 (next to be held NA October 1998); results - percent of vote NA
Prime Minister Edison C. JAMES (since 12 June 1995); prime minister is appointed by the president
#
Cabinet was appointed by the president on the advice of the prime minister
#
unicameral
House of Assembly: elections last held 12 June 1995 (next to be held by October 2000); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (30 total; 9 appointed senators and 21 elected representatives) UWP 11, DLP 5, DFP 5
#
Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court (located in Santa Lucia), one of the six judges must reside in Dominica and preside over the Court of Summary Jurisdiction
Dominica Freedom Party (DFP), Brian ALLEYNE; Dominica Labor Party (DLP), Rosie DOUGLAS; United Workers Party (UWP), Edison JAMES
#
Dominica Liberation Movement (DLM), a small leftist group
green with a centered cross of three equal bands - the vertical part is yellow (hoist side), black, and white - the horizontal part is yellow (top), black, and white; superimposed in the center of the cross is a red disk bearing a sisserou parrot encircled by 10 green five-pointed stars edged in yellow; the 10 stars represent the 10 administrative divisions (parishes)
The economy is dependent on agriculture and thus is highly vulnerable to climatic conditions. Agriculture accounts for 26% of GDP and employs 40% of the labor force. Development of the tourist industry remains difficult because of the rugged coastline and the lack of an international airport. Hurricane Luis devastated the country's banana crop in September 1995; tropical storms had wiped out one-quarter of the crop in 1994 as well. The newly elected government is attempting to develop an offshore financial industry in order to diversify the island's production base.
#
-1
2600
216
26
?
?
0.40
25000
agriculture 40%, industry and commerce 32%, services 28% (1984)
bananas, citrus, mangoes, root crops, coconuts; forestry and fisheries potential not exploited
transshipment point for narcotics bound for the US and Europe; minor cannabis producer
48.30
bananas, soap, bay oil, vegetables, grapefruit, oranges
UK 55%, Caricom countries, Italy, US
98.80
manufactured goods, machinery and equipment, food, chemicals
US 25%, Caricom, UK, Japan, Canada
92.80
ODA, $NA
?
1 EC dollar (EC$) = 100 cents
2.70
1 July - 30 June
?
800
500 km
300 km
?
?
?
?
Portsmouth, Roseau
?
?
?
?
2
?
?
?
1
1
?
?
?
?
?
?
14613
fully automatic network
microwave radio relay and SHF radiotelephone links to Martinique and Guadeloupe; VHF and UHF radiotelephone links to Saint Lucia
3
2
0
45000
1
5200
Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force (includes Special Service Unit, Coast Guard)
#
?
?
?
?
?
@Dominican Republic
0
0$Santo Domingo$1857$-6990$1410000$
#
Columbus landed on the island of Hispaniola in 1496 when it was already
inhabited by Carib and Arawak indians. The city of Santo Domingo was founded
in 1496 and is the oldest European settlement in the hemisphere. In 1844 the
island was divided into the independent state of Haiti and the Dominican
Republic. Despite a democratic constitution, the Dominican Republic was
ruled by a series of dictators. The US marines occupied the country from
1916 to 1924 in order to keep the peace between rival political interests. A
constitutionally elected government was installed in 1924. In 1930, General
Rafael Trujillo was elected president. Although the economy flourished under
his rule, his brutality and corruption led to his assassination in 1961.
Political unrest in the subsequent years forced a second intervention by US
marines in 1965. 5 South American countries also sent forces to complete
this Inter-American peace force, which left the country in September 1966
after elections the previous June. The present constitution dates from 1966.
There are two legislative houses, the Senate with 27 seats, and the Chamber
of Deputies with 91 seats. Members of both houses are elected for terms of
four years by general election. Executive power is in the hands of the
president, also elected for four years, who is also chief of police and
armed forces. The country is divided into 26 provinces and one national
district (Distriro Nacional), each of which returns a member to the Senate.
#
DOM
Caribbean, eastern two-thirds of the island of Hispaniola, between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, east of Haiti
48730
48380
275
Haiti 275 km
1288
24
200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
200
?
6
none
tropical maritime; little seasonal temperature variation; seasonal variation in rainfall
rugged highlands and mountains with fertile valleys interspersed
Lago Enriquillo -46 m
Pico Duarte 3,175 m
nickel, bauxite, gold, silver
23
7
43
13
14
2250
water shortages; soil eroding into the sea damages coral reefs; deforestation
occasional hurricanes (July to October)
party to - Endangered Species, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Law of the Sea
8088881
34
1401322
1355530
62
2541356
2460509
4
156238
173926
1.73
23.51
5.66
-0.53
1.05
1.03
1.03
0.90
1.03
47.70
69.06
66.89
71.34
2.66
Dominican(s)
Dominican
white 16%, black 11%, mixed 73%
#
Roman Catholic 95%
Spanish
82.10
82
82.20
Dominican Republic
none
Republica Dominicana
none
republic
Santo Domingo
29 provinces (provincias, singular - provincia) and 1 district* (distrito); Azua, Baoruco, Barahona, Dajabon, Distrito Nacional*, Duarte, Elias Pina, El Seibo, Espaillat, Hato Mayor, Independencia, La Altagracia, La Romana, La Vega, Maria Trinidad Sanchez, Monsenor Nouel, Monte Cristi, Monte Plata, Pedernales, Peravia, Puerto Plata, Salcedo, Samana, Sanchez Ramirez, San Cristobal, San Juan, San Pedro de Macoris, Santiago, Santiago Rodriguez, Valverde
Independence: 27 February 1844 (from Haiti)
#
?
Independence Day, 27 February (1844)
28 November 1966
based on French civil codes
18 years of age, universal and compulsory; married persons regardless of age
President Joaquin BALAGUER Ricardo (since 16 August 1986, sixth elected term began 16 August 1994); Vice President Jacinto PEYNADO Garrigoza (since 16 August 1994); president is elected for a four-year term by direct vote; election last held 16 May 1994 (next to be held 16 May 1996); results - Joaquin BALAGUER (PRSC) 42.6%, Juan BOSCH Gavino (PLD) 13.2%, Jose Francisco PENA Gomez (PRD) 41.9%, Jacobo MAJLUTA (PRI) 2.3%
?
#
Cabinet was nominated by the president
#
bicameral National Congress (Congreso Nacional)
Senate (Senado): elections last held 16 May 1994 (next to be held NA May 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (30 total) PRSC 15, PLD 1, PRD 14
Chamber of Deputies (Camara de Diputados): elections last held 16 May 1994 (next to be held NA May 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (120 total) PLD 13, PRSC 50, PRD 57
#
Supreme Court (Corte Suprema), judges are elected by the Senate
major parties: Social Christian Reformist Party (PRSC), Joaquin BALAGUER Ricardo; Dominican Liberation Party (PLD), Lidio CADET; Dominican Revolutionary Party (PRD), Jose Franciso PENA Gomez; Independent Revolutionary Party (PRI), Jacobo MAJLUTA
minor parties: National Veterans and Civilian Party (PNVC), Juan Rene BEAUCHAMPS Javier; Liberal Party of the Dominican Republic (PLRD), Andres Van Der HORST; Democratic Quisqueyan Party (PQD), Elias WESSIN Chavez; National Progressive Force (FNP), Marino VINICIO Castillo; Popular Christian Party (PPC), Rogelio DELGADO Bogaert; Dominican Communist Party (PCD), Narciso ISA Conde; Dominican Workers' Party (PTD), Ivan RODRIGUEZ; Anti-Imperialist Patriotic Union (UPA), Ignacio RODRIGUEZ Chiappini; Alliance for Democracy Party (APD), Maximilano Rabelais PUIG Miller, Nelsida MARMOLEJOS, Vicente BENGOA; Democratic Union (UD), Fernando ALVAREZ Bogaert
note: in 1983 several leftist parties, including the PCD, joined to form the Dominican Leftist Front (FID); however, they still retain individual party structures
a centered white cross that extends to the edges, divides the flag into four rectangles - the top ones are blue (hoist side) and red, the bottom ones are red (hoist side) and blue; a small coat of arms is at the center of the cross
Economic reforms launched in late 1994 contributed to exchange rate stabilization, reduced inflation, and relatively strong GDP growth in 1995. Output growth was concentrated in the tourism and free trade zone (ftz) sectors while sugar and non-ftz manufacturing declined last year. Drought in early 1995 hurt agricultural production but favorable world prices for export commodities helped mitigate the impact. Sugar refining was devastated by a disastrous harvest resulting from the drought and ongoing problems at the state-owned sugar company. Unreliable electric supplies continue to hamper expansion in manufacturing; small and medium-sized retail firms also suffer due to the dismal power situation. A presidential election scheduled for May 1996 could lead to increased government spending before and in the immediate aftermath of the vote, raising the potential for rising inflation and increased pressure on the Dominican peso.
#
3.50
1460
11810
13
32
55
9.50
2300000
agriculture 50%, services and government 32%, industry 18% (1991 est.)
30
1800.00
2200
tourism, sugar processing, ferronickel and gold mining, textiles, cement, tobacco
mestizo (mixed Indian and Spanish) 55%, Indian 25%, Spanish 10%, black 10%
#
Roman Catholic 95%
Spanish (official), Indian languages (especially Quechua)
90.10
92
88.20
Republic of Ecuador
Ecuador
Republica del Ecuador
Ecuador
republic
Quito
21 provinces (provincias, singular - provincia); Azuay, Bolivar, Canar, Carchi, Chimborazo, Cotopaxi, El Oro, Esmeraldas, Galapagos, Guayas, Imbabura, Loja, Los Rios, Manabi, Morona-Santiago, Napo, Pastaza, Pichincha, Sucumbios, Tungurahua, Zamora-Chinchipe
Independence: 24 May 1822 (from Spain)
#
?
Independence Day, 10 August (1809) (independence of Quito)
10 August 1979
based on civil law system; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
18 years of age; universal, compulsory for literate persons ages 18-65, optional for other eligible voters
President Sixto DURAN-BALLEN Cordovez (since 10 August 1992); Vice President Eduardo PENA Trivino (since 18 October 1995); president and vice president were elected for four-year terms by universal suffrage; runoff election held 5 July 1992; results - Sixto DURAN-BALLEN elected as president (next election was held 19 May 1996; no presidential candidate received more than 50% of the vote; a runoff election between BUCARAM and NEBOT will be held on 7 July 1996); note - former Vice President DAHIK resigned 11 October 1995 and left the country to escape arrest on corruption charges; National Congress chose PENA as his successor in accordance with the constitution
?
#
Cabinet was appointed by the president
#
unicameral
National Congress (Congreso Nacional): elections last held 19 May 1996; results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (82 total) PSC 27, PRE 21, DP 10, Pachakutik Movement 7, ID 5, PLRE 3, MPD 2, APRE 2, CFP 1, independent and other 4
#
Supreme Court (Corte Suprema), judges are elected by the Chamber of Representatives
Center-Right parties: Republican Unity Party (PUR); Social Christian Party (PSC), Jaime NEBOT Saadi, president; Ecuadorian Conservative Party (PCE), President Sixto DURAN-BALLEN (two parties merged in 1995)
Center-Left parties: Democratic Left (ID), Andres VALLEJO Arcos, Rodrigo BORJA Cevallos, leaders; Popular Democracy (DP), Rodrigo PAZ, leader; Ecuadorian Radical Liberal Party (PLRE), Medardo MORA, leader; Radical Alfarista Front (FRA), Jaime ASPIAZU Seminario, director
Populist parties: Roldosist Party (PRE), Abdala BUCARAM Ortiz, director; Concentration of Popular Forces (CFP), Rodolfo BAQUERIZO Nazur, leader; Popular Revolutionary Action (APRE), Frank VARGAS Passos, leader
Far-Left parties: Popular Democratic Movement (MPD), Juan Jose CASTELLO, leader; Ecuadorian Socialist Party (PSE), Leon ROLDOS, leader; Broad Leftist Front (FADI), Rene Mauge MOSQUERA, chairman; Ecuadorian National Liberation (LN), Alfredo CASTILLO, director
Communists: Communist Party of Ecuador (PCE, pro-North Korea), Rene Mauge MOSQUERA, Secretary General; Communist Party of Ecuador/Marxist-Leninist (PCMLE, Maoist)
three horizontal bands of yellow (top, double width), blue, and red with the coat of arms superimposed at the center of the flag; similar to the flag of Colombia that is shorter and does not bear a coat of arms
Ecuador has substantial oil resources and rich agricultural areas. Growth has been uneven in recent years because of fluctuations in prices for Ecuador's primary exports - oil and bananas - as well as because of government policies designed to curb inflation. President Sixto DURAN-BALLEN launched a series of macroeconomic reforms when he came into office in August 1992, which included raising domestic fuel prices and utility rates, eliminating most subsidies, and bringing the government budget into balance. These measures helped to reduce inflation from 55% in 1992 to 25% in 1995. DURAN-BALLEN has a much more favorable attitude toward foreign investment than his predecessor and has supported several laws designed to encourage foreign investment. Ecuador has implemented free or complementary trade agreements with Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Peru, and Venezuela, as well as joined the World Trade Organization. Growth slowed to 2.3% in 1995 due in part to high domestic interest rates and shortages of electric power.
#
2.30
1390
15938
13
39
48
25
2800000
agriculture 35%, manufacturing 21%, commerce 16%, services and other activities 28% (1982)
7.10
3300.00
3300.00
petroleum, food processing, textiles, metal work, paper products, wood products, chemicals, plastics, fishing, lumber
significant transit country for derivatives of coca originating in Colombia, Bolivia, and Peru; minor illicit producer of coca; importer of precursor chemicals used in production of illicit narcotics; important money-laundering hub
satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean)
272
0
39
?
33
940000
Army (Ejercito Ecuatoriano), Navy (Armada Ecuatoriana, includes Marines), Air Force (Fuerza Aerea Ecuatoriana), National Police
#
2968361
2006509
121241
386000000
2.10
@Egypt
0
0$Cairo$3002$3122$9790000$
1$Alexandrie$3100$3000$2926000$
1$Guizeh$3000$3117$3725000$
1$Suez$2999$3255$327000$
#
The union of Upper and Lower Egypt by the Menes in 3100 BC is traditionally
seen as the beginning of Egyptian history. In 525 BC Egypt was conquered by
the Persian Cambyses. Persian rule came to an end in 332 BC when Egypt was
conquered by Alexander the Great. After three centuries, Roman rule took
over, but after 395 AD, Egypt was administered from Constantinople and
flourished as a center of Christianity until overrun by Muslims in the 7th
century AD. Egypt became politically and culturally important again for a
brief period from 1250 to 1517 under the Mamluks. This importance diminished
under the Ottoman Turks (1517-1798). France occupied Egypt from 1798-1805.
In 1882 Egypt became a British protectorate and in 1922 a constitutional
monarchy. In 1952, Farouk, who had been king since 1937, was forced to
abdicate, and the following year saw the complete independence of Egypt. The
constitution of 1971 was amended in 1980 to base the legal system on Islamic
law and to declare Egypt to be a "socialist-democratic state". The country
is divided into 25 provinces or "muhafazats".
#
ET
Northern Africa, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Libya and the Gaza Strip
1001450
995450
2689
Gaza Strip 11 km, Israel 255 km, Libya 1,150 km, Sudan 1,273 km
2450
24
200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
200
?
12
administrative boundary with Sudan does not coincide with international boundary creating the "Hala'ib Triangle," a barren area of 20,580 sq km, tensions over this disputed area began to escalate in 1992 and remain high
desert; hot, dry summers with moderate winters
vast desert plateau interrupted by Nile valley and delta
agricultural land being lost to urbanization and windblown sands; increasing soil salinization below Aswan High Dam; desertification; oil pollution threatening coral reefs, beaches, and marine habitats; other water pollution from agricultural pesticides, raw sewage, and industrial effluents; very limited natural fresh water resources away from the Nile which is the only perennial water source; rapid growth in population overstraining natural resources
periodic droughts; frequent earthquakes, flash floods, landslides, volcanic activity; hot, driving windstorm called khamsin occurs in spring; dust storms, sandstorms
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Desertification, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Tropical Timber 94
63575107
37
11970197
11462689
60
19127696
18738304
3
1028916
1247305
1.91
28.18
8.70
-0.35
1.05
1.04
1.02
0.82
1.02
72.80
61.43
59.51
63.46
3.58
Egyptian(s)
Egyptian
Eastern Hamitic stock (Egyptians, Bedouins, and Berbers) 99%, Greek, Nubian, Armenian, other European (primarily Italian and French) 1%
#
Muslim (mostly Sunni) 94% (official estimate), Coptic Christian and other 6% (official estimate)
Arabic (official), English and French widely understood by educated classes
51.40
63.60
38.80
Arab Republic of Egypt
Egypt
Jumhuriyat Misr al-Arabiyah
none
republic
Cairo
26 governorates (muhafazat, singular - muhafazah); Ad Daqahliyah, Al Bahr al Ahmar, Al Buhayrah, Al Fayyum, Al Gharbiyah, Al Iskandariyah, Al Isma'iliyah, Al Jizah, Al Minufiyah, Al Minya, Al Qahirah, Al Qalyubiyah, Al Wadi al Jadid, Ash Sharqiyah, As Suways, Aswan, Asyut, Bani Suwayf, Bur Sa'id, Dumyat, Janub Sina, Kafr ash Shaykh, Matruh, Qina, Shamal Sina, Suhaj
Independence: 28 February 1922 (from UK)
#
?
Anniversary of the Revolution, 23 July (1952)
11 September 1971
based on English common law, Islamic law, and Napoleonic codes; judicial review by Supreme Court and Council of State (oversees validity of administrative decisions); accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with reservations
18 years of age; universal and compulsory
President Mohammed Hosni MUBARAK (sworn in as president 14 October 1981, eight days after the assassination of President SADAT); national referendum held 4 October 1993 validated MUBARAK's nomination by the People's Assembly to a third six-year presidential term; note - the president is nominated by the People's Assembly and that nomination must then be validated by a national, popular referendum
Prime Minister Kamal Ahmed al-GANZOURI (since 4 January 1996) was appointed by the president
#
Cabinet was appointed by the president
#
bicameral
People's Assembly (Majlis al-Cha'b): elections last held 29 November 1995 (next to be held NA 2000); results - NDP 72%, idependents 25%, opposition 3%; seats - (454 total, 444 elected, 10 appointed by the president) NDP 317, independents 114, NWP 6, NPUG 5, Nasserist Arab Democratic Party 1, Liberals 1
Advisory Council (Majlis al-Shura): functions only in a consultative role; elections last held 7 June 1995 (next to be held NA); results - NDP 99%, independents 1%; seats - (264 total, 176 elected, 88 appointed by the president) seats by party NA
#
Supreme Constitutional Court
National Democratic Party (NDP), President Mohammed Hosni MUBARAK, leader, is the dominant party; legal opposition parties are as follows: New Wafd Party (NWP), Fu'ad SIRAJ AL-DIN; Socialist Labor Party (SLP), Ibrahim SHUKRI; National Progressive Unionist Grouping (NPUG), Khalid Muhi al-DIN; Socialist Liberal Party, Mustafa Kamal MURAD; Democratic Unionist Party, Mohammed 'Abd-al-Mun'im TURK; Umma Party, Ahmad al-SABAHI; Misr al-Fatah Party (Young Egypt Party), leader NA; Nasserist Arab Democratic Party, Dia' al-din DAWUD; Democratic Peoples' Party, Anwar AFIFI; The Greens Party, Kamal KIRAH; Social Justice Party, Muhammad 'ABD-AL-'AL
note: formation of political parties must be approved by government
#
despite a constitutional ban against religious-based parties, the technically illegal Muslim Brotherhood constitutes MUBARAK's potentially most significant political opposition; MUBARAK tolerated limited political activity by the Brotherhood for his first two terms, but has moved more aggressively in the past year to block its influence; trade unions and professional associations are officially sanctioned
three equal horizontal bands of red (top), white, and black with the national emblem (a shield superimposed on a golden eagle facing the hoist side above a scroll bearing the name of the country in Arabic) centered in the white band; similar to the flag of Yemen, which has a plain white band; also similar to the flag of Syria that has two green stars and to the flag of Iraq, which has three green stars (plus an Arabic inscription) in a horizontal line centered in the white band
Half of Egypt's GDP originates in the public sector, most industrial plants being owned by the government. Overregulation holds back technical modernization and foreign investment. Even so, the economy grew rapidly during the late 1970s and early 1980s, but in 1986 the collapse of world oil prices and an increasingly heavy burden of debt servicing led Egypt to begin negotiations with the IMF for balance-of-payments support. Egypt's first IMF standby arrangement, concluded in mid-1987, was suspended in early 1988 because of the government's failure to adopt promised reforms. Egypt signed a follow-on program with the IMF and also negotiated a structural adjustment loan with the World Bank in 1991. In 1991-93 the government made solid progress on administrative reforms such as liberalizing exchange and interest rates, but resisted implementing major structural reforms like streamlining the public sector. As a result, the economy has not gained enough momentum to tackle the growing problem of unemployment. Egypt made uneven progress in implementing the successor programs it signed onto in late 1993 with the IMF and World Bank; currently it is negotiating another successor program with the IMF. President MUBARAK has cited population growth as the main cause of the country's economic troubles. The addition of about 1.2 million people a year to the already huge population of 63 million exerts enormous pressure on the 5% of the land area available for agriculture along the Nile.
#
4
790
50224
?
?
?
9.40
16000000
government, public sector enterprises, and armed forces 36%, agriculture 34%, privately owned service and manufacturing enterprises 20% (1984)
cotton, rice, corn, wheat, beans, fruits, vegetables; cattle, water buffalo, sheep, goats; annual fish catch about 140,000 metric tons
a transit point for Southwest Asian and Southeast Asian heroin and opium moving to Europe and the US; popular transit stop for Nigerian couriers; large domestic consumption of hashish from Lebanon and Syria
5400
crude oil and petroleum products, cotton yarn, raw cotton, textiles, metal products, chemicals
EU, US, Japan
15200.00
machinery and equipment, foods, fertilizers, wood products, durable consumer goods, capital goods
US, EU, Japan
33600
ODA, $1.713 billion (1993)
?
1 Egyptian pound (úE) = 100 piasters
3.40
1 July - 30 June
4751
4,751 km 1,435-m gauge (42 km electrified; 951 km double track)
47387
34,593 km
12,794 km (1992 est.)
3500
1171
596
460
Alexandria, Al Ghardaqah, Aswan, Asyut, Bur Safajah, Damietta, Marsa Matruh, Port Said, Suez
principal centers at Alexandria, Cairo, Al Mansurah, Ismailia, Suez, and Tanta are connected by coaxial cable and microwave radio relay
satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean and Indian Ocean), 1 Arabsat, and 1 Inmarsat; 5 coaxial submarine cables; tropospheric scatter to Sudan; microwave radio relay to Israel; participant in Medarabtel
39
6
0
?
41
5000000
Army, Navy, Air Force, Air Defense Command
#
16530460
10723011
660453
3500000000
8.20
@El Salvador
0
0$San Salvador$1367$-8917$1179000$
1$Santa Ana$1398$-8957$239000$
#
The central American isthmus was conquered by Spanish conquistadores in
1524. Within 25 years, the area that was to become El Salvador formed a
permanent Spanish settlement. As San Salvador, independence from Spain was
gained in 1821 with the forming of the Central American Federation. In 1839,
San Salvador became the independent republic El Salvador. A peasants
rebellion in 1932 was brutally suppressed by general Maximiliano Hernandez
Martinez. Since then, El Salvador has been ruled by a series of military
regimes. A military coup overthrew the Romero government in 1979, but the
ruling military-civilian junta failed to quell the civil war. To date, more
than 50,000 deaths have resulted. Presidential elections were held in 1984
(in the midst of the civil war), when Jose Napoleon Duarte won 54% of the
vote. El Salvador was hit by a major earthquake on 10 October 1986, killing
some 1,500 people and making tens of thousands homeless. El Salvador is
divided into 14 departments.
#
ES
Middle America, bordering the North Pacific Ocean, between Guatemala and Honduras
21040
20720
545
Guatemala 203 km, Honduras 342 km
307
?
?
?
?
200
land boundary dispute with Honduras mostly resolved by 11 September 1992 International Court of Justice (ICJ) decision; with respect to the maritime boundary in the Golfo de Fonseca, ICJ referred to an earlier agreement in this century and advised that some tripartite resolution among El Salvador, Honduras and Nicaragua likely would be required
tropical; rainy season (May to October); dry season (November to April)
mostly mountains with narrow coastal belt and central plateau
Pacific Ocean 0 m
Cerro El Pital 2,730 m
hydropower, geothermal power, petroleum
27
8
29
6
30
1200
deforestation; soil erosion; water pollution; contamination of soils from disposal of toxic wastes
known as the Land of Volcanoes; frequent and sometimes very destructive earthquakes and volcanic activity
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - Law of the Sea
5828987
38
1137804
1097774
57
1627519
1716261
5
115973
133656
1.81
28.30
5.81
-4.40
1.05
1.04
0.95
0.87
0.98
31.90
68.88
65.44
72.50
3.20
Salvadoran(s)
Salvadoran
mestizo 94%, Indian 5%, white 1%
#
Roman Catholic 75%
Spanish, Nahua (among some Indians)
71.50
73.50
69.80
Republic of El Salvador
El Salvador
Republica de El Salvador
El Salvador
republic
San Salvador
14 departments (departamentos, singular - departamento); Ahuachapan, Cabanas, Chalatenango, Cuscatlan, La Libertad, La Paz, La Union, Morazan, San Miguel, San Salvador, Santa Ana, San Vicente, Sonsonate, Usulutan
Independence: 15 September 1821 (from Spain)
#
?
Independence Day, 15 September (1821)
20 December 1983
based on civil and Roman law, with traces of common law; judicial review of legislative acts in the Supreme Court; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with reservations
18 years of age; universal
President Armando CALDERON Sol (since 1 June 1994) and Vice President Enrique BORGO Bustamante (since 1 June 1994) were elected for five-year terms by universal suffrage; election last held 20 March 1994 (next to be held NA March 1999); results - Armando CALDERON SOL (ARENA) 49.03%, Ruben ZAMORA Rivas (CD/FMLN/MNR) 24.09%, Fidel CHAVEZ Mena (PDC) 16.39%, other 10.49%; because no candidate received a majority, a run-off election was held 24 April 1994; results - Armando CALDERON SOL (ARENA) 68.35%, Ruben ZAMORA Rivas (CD/FMLN/MNR) 31.65%
?
#
Council of Ministers
#
unicameral
Legislative Assembly (Asamblea Legislativa): elections last held 20 March 1994 (next to be held NA March 1997); results - ARENA 46.4%, FMLN 25.0%, PDC 21.4%, PCN 4.8%, other 2.4%; seats - (84 total) ARENA 39, FMLN 21, PDC 18, PCN 4, other 2
#
Supreme Court (Corte Suprema), judges are selected by the Legislative Assembly
National Republican Alliance (ARENA), Juan Jose DOMENECH, president; Farabundo Marti National Liberation Front (FMLN), Salvador SANCHEZ Ceren (aka Leonel GONZALEZ), general coordinator; Christian Democratic Party (PDC), Ronal UMANA, secretary general; National Conciliation Party (PCN), Ciro CRUZ Zepeda, secretary general; Democratic Convergence (CD), Juan Jose MARTEL, secretary general; Unity Movement, Jorge MARTINEZ Menendez, president
note: newly formed parties not yet officially recognized by the Supreme Electoral Tribunal: Liberal Democratic Party (PLD), Kirio Waldo SALGADO, founder; Social Democratic Party (breakaway from FMLN), Joaquin VILLALOBOS, founder; Social Christian Renovation Movement (MRSC) (breakaway from PDC), Abraham RODRIGUEZ, founder
#
labor organizations: Salvadoran Communal Union (UCS), peasant association; General Confederation of Workers (CGT), moderate; United Workers Front (FUT)
business organizations: Productive Alliance (AP), conservative; National Federation of Salvadoran Small Businessmen (FENAPES), conservative
three equal horizontal bands of blue (top), white, and blue with the national coat of arms centered in the white band; the coat of arms features a round emblem encircled by the words REPUBLICA DE EL SALVADOR EN LA AMERICA CENTRAL; similar to the flag of Nicaragua, which has a different coat of arms centered in the white band - it features a triangle encircled by the words REPUBLICA DE NICARAGUA on top and AMERICA CENTRAL on the bottom; also similar to the flag of Honduras, which has five blue stars arranged in an X pattern centered in the white band
El Salvador possesses a fast-growing entrepreneurial economy in which 90% of economic activity is in private hands, with growth averaging 5% since 1990. Yet, because the 1980s were a decade of civil war and stagnation, per capita GDP has not regained the level of the late 1970s. The rebound in the 1990s stems from the government program, in conjunction with the IMF, of privatization, deregulation, and fiscal stabilization. The economy now is oriented more toward manufacturing and services compared with agriculture. The sizable trade deficits are in the main covered by remittances from the large number of Salvadorans abroad.
#
6.30
1580
9210
?
?
?
11.40
1700000
agriculture 40%, commerce 16%, manufacturing 15%, government 13%, financial services 9%, transportation 6%, other 1%
7 provinces (provincias, singular - provincia); Annobon, Bioko Norte, Bioko Sur, Centro Sur, Kie-Ntem, Litoral, Wele-Nzas
Independence: 12 October 1968 (from Spain)
#
?
Independence Day, 12 October (1968)
new constitution 17 November 1991
partly based on Spanish civil law and tribal custom
NA years of age; universal adult
President Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Teodoro OBIANG NGUEMA MBASOGO (since 3 August 1979) election last held 25 February 1996 (next to be held NA February 2003); results - President OBIANG NGUEMA MBASOGO reelected to a seven-year term without opposition
Prime Minister Silvestre SIALE BILEKA (since 17 January 1992); Vice Prime Minister Anatolio NDONG MBA (since November 1993)
#
Council of Ministers appointed by the president
#
unicameral
House of People's Representatives: (Camara de Representantes del Pueblo) elections last held 21 November 1993 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (82 total) PDGE 72, various opposition parties 10
#
Supreme Tribunal
ruling party: Democratic Party for Equatorial Guinea (PDGE), Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Teodoro OBIANG NGUEMA MBASOGO, party leader
opposition parties: Progressive Democratic Alliance (ADP), Antonio-Ebang Mbele Abang, president; Popular Action of Equatorial Guinea (APGE),Casiano Masi Edu, leader; Liberal Democratic Convention (CLD), Alfonso Nsue MIFUMU, president; Convergence for Social Democracy (CPDS), Santiago Obama Ndong, president; Social Democratic and Popular Convergence (CSDP), Secundino Oyono Agueng Ada, general secretary; Party of the Social Democratic Coalition (PCSD), Buenaventura Moswi M'Asumu, general coordinater; Liberal Party (PL), Santos PASCUAL; Party of Progress (PP), Severo MOTO Nsa, president; Social Democratic Party (PSD), Benjamin-Gabriel Balingha Balinga Alene, general secretary; Socialist Party of Equatorial Guinea (PSGE), Tomas MICHEBE Fernandez, general secretary; National Democratic Union (UDENA), Jose MECHEBA Ikaka, president; Democratic Social Union (UDS), Camelo Modu, general secretary; Popular Union (UP), Juan Bitui, president
three equal horizontal bands of green (top), white, and red with a blue isosceles triangle based on the hoist side and the coat of arms centered in the white band; the coat of arms has six yellow six-pointed stars (representing the mainland and five offshore islands) above a gray shield bearing a silk-cotton tree and below which is a scroll with the motto UNIDAD, PAZ, JUSTICIA (Unity, Peace, Justice)
Agriculture, forestry, and fishing account for about half of GDP and nearly all exports. Subsistence farming predominates. Although pre-independence Equatorial Guinea counted on cocoa production for hard currency earnings, the deterioration of the rural economy under successive brutal regimes has diminished potential for agriculture-led growth. A number of aid programs sponsored by the World Bank and the IMF have been cut off since 1993 because of the government's gross corruption and mismanagement. Businesses, for the most part, are owned by government officials and their family members. Undeveloped natural resources include titanium, iron ore, manganese, uranium, and alluvial gold. Oil exploration, taking place under concessions offered to US, French, and Spanish firms, has been moderately successful. In 1995, exports responded to the devaluation of 12 January 1994, apparently resulting in a sizable surplus and strong GDP growth. Increased production from recently discovered oil and natural gas fields will provide a greater share of exports in 1996-97.
#
10
380
164
47
26
27
41
172000
agriculture 66%, services 23%, industry 11% (1980)
1 Communaute Financiere Africaine franc (CFAF) = 100 centimes
500.56
1 April - 31 March
0
2744
330 km
2,414 km (1988 est.)
?
?
?
?
Bata, Luba, Malabo
2
6412
6699
cargo 1, passenger-cargo 1 (1995 est.)
3
?
1
1
?
1
?
?
?
?
?
?
2000
NA
international communications from Bata and Malabo to African and European countries; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean)
2
0
0
?
1
4000
Army, Navy, Air Force, Rapid Intervention Force, National Police
#
92704
47124
?
2500000
?
@Eritrea
0
$0$Asmara$1532$3893$374000$
#
#
?
Eastern Africa, bordering the Red Sea, between Djibouti and Sudan
121320
121320
1630
Djibouti 113 km, Ethiopia 912 km, Sudan 605 km
1151
?
?
?
?
?
a dispute with Yemen over sovereignty of the Hanish Islands in the southern Red Sea has been submitted to arbitration under the auspices of the ICJ
hot, dry desert strip along Red Sea coast; cooler and wetter in the central highlands (up to 61 cm of rainfall annually); semiarid in western hills and lowlands; rainfall heaviest during June-September except on coastal desert
dominated by extension of Ethiopian north-south trending highlands, descending on the east to a coastal desert plain, on the northwest to hilly terrain and on the southwest to flat-to-rolling plains
Kobar Sink -75 m
Soira 3,013 m
gold, potash, zinc, copper, salt, probably oil (petroleum geologists are prospecting for it), fish
3
2
40
5
50
?
famine; deforestation; desertification; soil erosion; overgrazing; loss of infrastructure from civil warfare
frequent droughts
party to - Endangered Species; signed, but not ratified - Climate Change, Desertification
3427883
44
755417
743135
53
910976
913531
3
54310
50514
2.79
43.32
15.44
0
1.03
1.02
1
1.08
1.01
118.90
50.31
48.57
52.10
6.50
Eritrean(s)
Eritrean
ethnic Tigrinya 50%, Tigre and Kunama 40%, Afar 4%, Saho (Red Sea coast dwellers) 3%
#
Muslim, Coptic Christian, Roman Catholic, Protestant
Afar, Amharic, Arabic, Italian, Tigre and Kunama, Tigrinya, minor tribal languages
?
?
?
State of Eritrea
Eritrea
none
none
transitional government
Asmara (formerly Asmera)
8 provinces (singular - awraja); Akele Guzay, Barka, Denkel, Hamasen, Sahil, Semhar, Senhit, Seraye; note - information issued by the Eritrean government indicates that the administrative structure of Eritrea, which had been established by former colonial powers, will consist of only six regions when the new constitution, presently being drafted, goes into effect sometime in 1996
Independence: 27 May 1993 (from Ethiopia; formerly the Eritrea Autonomous Region)
#
?
National Day (independence from Ethiopia), 24 May (1993)
transitional "constitution" decreed 19 May 1993; the promulgation of a draft constitution is expected in 1996
NA
NA; note - the transitional constitution of 19 May 1993 did not provide rules for suffrage, but it seems likely that the final version of the constitution, to be promulgated some time in 1996, will follow the example set in the referendum of 1993 in which suffrage was universal for persons 18 years of age or older
President ISAIAS Afworki (since 22 May 1993) is head of the State Council and National Assembly
?
#
State Council is the collective executive authority
note: election to be held in 1997
#
unicameral
National Assembly: 75 members of the PFDJ Central Committee (the old Central Committee of the EPLF) and 75 directly elected members serve as the country's legislative body until country-wide elections are held in 1997
#
Judiciary
People's Front for Democracy and Justice (PFDJ), ISAIAS Afworki, PETROS Solomon (the only party recognized by the government)
#
Eritrean Islamic Jihad (EIJ); Eritrean Liberation Front (ELF), ABDULLAH Muhammed; Eritrean Liberation Front - United Organization (ELF-UO), Mohammed Said NAWUD; Eritrean Liberation Front - Revolutionary Council (ELF-RC), Ahmed NASSER
red isosceles triangle (based on the hoist side) dividing the flag into two right triangles; the upper triangle is green, the lower one is blue; a gold wreath encircling a gold olive branch is centered on the hoist side of the red triangle
With independence from Ethiopia on 27 April 1993, Eritrea faces the bitter economic problems of a small, desperately poor African country. Most of the population will continue to depend on subsistence farming. Domestic output is substantially augmented by worker remittances from abroad. Government revenues come from custom duties and income and sales taxes. Eritrea has inherited the entire coastline of Ethiopia and has long-term prospects for revenues from the development of offshore oil, offshore fishing, and tourism. For the time being, Ethiopia will be largely dependent on Eritrean ports for its foreign trade.
#
10
165
566
?
?
?
10
?
?
?
?
?
food processing, beverages, clothing and textiles
?
?
?
?
sorghum, lentils, vegetables, maize, cotton, tobacco, coffee, sisal (for making rope); livestock (including goats); fish
?
33
livestock, sorghum, textiles
Ethiopia, Italy, Saudi Arabia, UK, US, Yemen
420
processed goods, machinery, petroleum products
NA
?
ODA, $NA
?
1 birr (Br) = 100 cents; at present, Ethiopian currency used
6.20
calendar year
307
307 km 0.950-m gauge (1995 est.)
3845
807 km
3,038 km (1993 est.)
?
?
?
?
Assab (Aseb), Massawa (Mits'iwa)
1
11573
13593
?
14
1
1
?
?
2
1
1
4
4
?
?
?
very inadequate; about 4 telephones per 100 families, most of which are in Asmara; government is seeking international tenders to improve the system
NA
?
?
0
?
1
?
Army, Navy, Air Force
#
?
?
?
?
?
@Estonia
0
0$Tallinn$5937$2480$497000$
#
#
EW
Eastern Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea and Gulf of Finland, between Latvia and Russia
45100
43200
557
Latvia 267 km, Russia 290 km
1393
?
?
?
?
12
claims over 2,000 sq km of Russian territory in the Narva and Pechora regions - based on boundary established under the 1921 Peace Treaty of Tartu; disputes maritime border with Latvia - primary concern is fishing rights around Ruhne Island in the Gulf of Riga
maritime, wet, moderate winters, cool summers
marshy, lowlands
Baltic Sea 0 m
Suur Munamagi 318 m
shale oil, peat, phosphorite, amber
22
0
11
31
36
110
air heavily polluted with sulfur dioxide from oil-shale burning power plants in northeast; contamination of soil and groundwater with petroleum products, chemicals at former Soviet military bases
flooding occurs frequently in the spring
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Ship Pollution, Wetlands
1459428
20
148683
143563
66
467759
501519
14
63976
133928
-1.13
10.74
14.12
-7.96
1.05
1.04
0.93
0.48
0.87
17.40
68.13
62.50
74.05
1.55
Estonian(s)
Estonian
Estonian 61.5%, Russian 30.3%, Ukrainian 3.2%, Byelorussian 1.8%, Finn 1.1%, other 2.1% (1989)
#
Lutheran, Orthodox Christian
Estonian (official), Latvian, Lithuanian, Russian, other
100
100
100
Republic of Estonia
Estonia
Eesti Vabariik
Eesti
republic
Tallinn
15 counties (maakonnad, singular - maakond): Harju maakond (Tallinn), Hiiu maakond (Kardla), Ida-Viru maakond (Johvi), Jarva maakond (Paide), Jogeva maakond (Jogeva), Laane maakond (Haapsalu), Laane-Viru maakond (Rakvere), Parnu maakond (Parnu), Polva maakond (Polva), Rapla maakond (Rapla), Saare maakond (Kuessaare), Tartu maakond (Tartu), Valga maakond (Valga), Viljandi maakond (Viljandi), Voru maakond (Voru)
note: county centers are in parentheses
Independence: 6 September 1991 (from Soviet Union)
#
?
Independence Day, 24 February (1918)
adopted 28 June 1992
based on civil law system; no judicial review of legislative acts
18 years of age; universal
President Lennart MERI (since 21 October 1992) was elected for a five-year term by Parliament; election last held 20 September 1992 (next to be held fall 1996); results - no candidate received majority; Parliament elected Lennart MERI
Acting Prime Minister Tiit VAHI (since NA March 1995); the president nominated and Parliament authorized the candidate for prime minister
#
Council of Ministers was appointed by the prime minister, approved by Parliament
#
unicameral
Parliament (Riigikogu): elections last held 5 March 1995 (next to be held NA 1999); results - KMU 32.22%, RE 16.18%, K 14.17%, Pro Patria and ERSP 7.85%, M 5.98%, Our Home is Estonia and Right-Wingers 5.0%; seats - (101 total) KMU 41, RE 19, K 16, Pro Patria 8, Our Home is Estonia 6, M 6, Right-Wingers 5
#
National Court
Coalition Party and Rural Union (KMU), Tiit VAHI, chairman, made up of 4 parties: Coalition Party, Country People's Party, Farmer's Assembly, and Pensioners' and Families' League; Reform Party-Liberals (RE), Siim KALLAS, chairman; Center Party (K), Edgar SAVISAAR, chairman; Union of Pro Patria or Fatherland Alliance (Isamaa of Fatherland), Toivo JURGENSON, chairman; National Independence Party (ERSP), Kelam TUNNE, chairman, note - may have disappeared since the last election; Our Home is Estonia made up of 2 parties: United Peoples Party and the Russian People's Party of Estonia; United Peoples Party, Viktor ANDREJEV, chairman; Russian People's Party of Estonia, Sergei KUZNETSOV, chairman; Moderates (M) made up of 2 parties: Social Democratic Party and Rural Center Party; Social Democratic Party, Eiki NESTOR, chairman; Rural Center Party, Vambo KAAL, chairman; Right-Wingers, Ulo NUGIS, chairman
#
?
#
BIS, CBSS, CCC, CE, EBRD, ECE, EU (applicant), FAO, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Interpol, IOC, ISO (correspondent), ITU, NACC, OSCE, PFP, UN, UNCRO, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UPU, WEU (associate partner), WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTrO (applicant)
pre-1940 flag restored by Supreme Soviet in May 1990 - three equal horizontal bands of blue (top), black, and white
Estonia continues to experience strong economic growth after its economy bottomed out in 1993. Bolstered by a widespread national desire to reintegrate into Western Europe, Estonia has adhered to disciplined fiscal and financial policies and has led the FSU countries in pursuing economic reform. Monthly inflation has been held to under 5% since the beginning of 1992, with monthly inflation in 1995 at 2%. Following four years of decline, Estonia's GDP grew 5% in 1994 and 6% in 1995 - among the highest rates in Europe, according to estimates of the IMF and Estonia's own Economic Ministry. Despite these positive economic indicators, unemployment - 8% in 1994 - is on the rise, and wages - especially for teachers and law enforcement personnel - have not kept pace with inflation. Small- and medium-scale privatization is essentially complete, and large-scale privatization is progressing, but slowly. Estonia has successfully reoriented it trade toward the West, two-thirds of exports now going to Western markets. Estonia's free trade policies were the cornerstone of its negotiations with the European Union, and led to the signing of an association agreement in June 1995. Estonia was the only Baltic state not to have a transition period imposed by the EU prior to its implementation of a free trade agreement.
#
6
2920
4262
10
37
53
29
750000
industry and construction 42%, agriculture and forestry 20%, other 38% (1990)
potatoes, fruits, vegetables; livestock and dairy products; fish
transshipment point for illicit drugs from Central and Southwest Asia and Latin America to Western Europe; very limited illicit opium producer; mostly for domestic consumption
substantial investment has been made in cellular systems which are operational throughout Estonia
international traffic is carried to the other former Soviet republics by landline or microwave radio relay and to other countries partly by leased connection to the Moscow international gateway switch and partly by a new Tallinn-Helsinki fiber-optic, submarine cable which gives Estonia access to international circuits everywhere; access to the international packet-switched digital network via Helsinki
?
?
0
710000
3
600000
Ground Forces, Navy, Air and Air Defense Force (not officially sanctioned), Maritime Border Guard, Volunteer Defense League (Kaitseliit), Security Forces (internal and border troops), Coast Guard
#
357835
280757
10525
35000000
1.50
@Ethiopia
0
0$Addis-Abeba$903$3870$1500000$
3$Elgon$113$3455$4321$
#
A former monarchy, ruled by an emperor with almost total power, said to be
descended from King Solomon, where political parties were banned. Attempts
to colonize the country by foreign powers failed: only in 1935 was Italy
able to occupy the country (until 1941). The last emperor, Haile Selassi
(crowned 1930), was dethroned in the military coup of September 1974. In
December 1974, Ethiopia was declared a socialist state and the monarchy was
abolished the following March. The country was now ruled by
Lieutenant-Colonel Mengistu Haile Mariam. Rebellions occurred in various
provinces in 1975, and war broke out between government forces and Eritrean
guerillas of the ELF (Eritrean Liberation Front) and the EPLF (Eritrean
People's Liberation Front). Continued conflicts and long periods of drought
brought famine to many parts of Ethiopia throughout the latter half of the
1970's and the 1980's. A new Marxist-Leninist government came to power in
early 1987. On 10 September 1987 the Ethiopia was declared a People's
Democratic Republic.
There are 28 administrative units in Ethiopia.
#
ETH
Eastern Africa, west of Somalia
1127127
1119683
5311
Djibouti 337 km, Eritrea 912 km, Kenya 830 km, Somalia 1,626 km, Sudan 1,606 km
0
?
?
?
?
?
southern half of the boundary with Somalia is a Provisional Administrative Line; territorial dispute with Somalia over the Ogaden
tropical monsoon with wide topographic-induced variation
high plateau with central mountain range divided by Great Rift Valley
geologically active Great Rift Valley susceptible to earthquakes, volcanic eruptions; frequent droughts
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Environmental Modification, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban
57171662
46
13116158
13080276
51
14782995
14624779
3
728808
838646
2.72
46.05
17.53
-1.36
1.03
1
1.01
0.87
1
122.80
46.85
45.71
48.02
7
Ethiopian(s)
Ethiopian
Oromo 40%, Amhara and Tigrean 32%, Sidamo 9%, Shankella 6%, Somali 6%, Afar 4%, Gurage 2%, other 1%
#
Muslim 45%-50%, Ethiopian Orthodox 35%-40%, animist 12%, other 5%
Amharic (official), Tigrinya, Orominga, Guaraginga, Somali, Arabic, English (major foreign language taught in schools)
35.50
45.50
25.30
Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia
Ethiopia
none
Ityop'iya
federal republic
Addis Ababa
9 ethnically-based administrative regions (astedader akababiwach, singular - astedader akababi) and 1 federal capital*: Addis Ababa*; Afar; Amhara; Benshangul/Gumaz; Gambela; Harar; Oromia; Somali; Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples; Tigray
Independence: oldest independent country in Africa and one of the oldest in the world - at least 2,000 years
#
?
National Day, 28 May (1991) (defeat of Mengistu regime)
new constitution promulgated in December 1994
NA
18 years of age; universal
President NEGASSO Gidada (since NA August 1995) elected by the Council of People's Representatives following the elections of legislators in May and June 1995
Prime Minister MELES Zenawi (since NA August 1995) designated by the party in power, EPRDF, following the elections of legislators in May and June 1995
#
Council of Ministers as provided in the December 1994 constitution; ministers are selected by the prime minister and approved by the Council of People's Representatives
#
bicameral legislature
Federal Council: upper chamber, having NA members, represents the ethnic interests of the regional governments and is elected by the regional assemblies
Council of People's Representatives: lower chamber, having 550 members, elected by popular vote
note: both bodies have five-year terms of office; regional and national popular elections were held in May and June 1995; results - EPRDF swept nearly all seats
#
Supreme Court, judges are elected by the national legislature
Ethiopian People's Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF), MELES Zenawi
#
Oromo Liberation Front (OLF); All Amhara People's Organization; Southern Ethiopia People's Democratic Coalition; numerous small, ethnic-based groups have formed since MENGISTU'S resignation, including several Islamic militant groups
three equal horizontal bands of green (top), yellow, and red with a yellow pentagram and single yellow rays emanating from the angles between the points on a light blue disk centered on the three bands; Ethiopia is the oldest independent country in Africa, and the colors of her flag were so often adopted by other African countries upon independence that they became known as the pan-African colors
Ethiopia continues to face difficult economic problems as one of the poorest and least developed countries in Africa. Its economy is based on agriculture, which accounts for about half of GDP, 90% of exports, and 80% of total employment; coffee generates 60% of export earnings. The agricultural sector suffers from frequent periods of drought, poor cultivation practices, and deterioration of internal security conditions. The manufacturing sector is heavily dependent on inputs from the agricultural sector. Over 90% of large-scale industry, but less than 10% of agriculture, is state-run. The government is considering selling off a portion of state-owned plants and is implementing reform measures that are gradually liberalizing the economy. A major medium-term problem is the improvement of roads, water supply, and other parts of an infrastructure badly neglected during years of civil strife.
#
2.70
100
5717
48
15
37
10
18000000
agriculture and animal husbandry 80%, government and services 12%, industry and construction 8% (1985)
transit hub for heroin originating in Southwest and Southeast Asia and destined for Europe and North America as well as cocaine destined for markets in southern Africa; cultivates qat (chat) for local use and regional export
296
coffee, leather products, gold
Germany, Japan, Saudi Arabia, France, Italy
972
capital goods, consumer goods, fuel
US, Germany, Italy, Saudi Arabia, Japan
3700
ODA, $1.036 billion (1993)
?
1 birr (Br) = 100 cents
6.32
8 July - 7 July
681
681 km 1.000-m gauge
24127
3,289 km
20,838 km (1993 est.)
?
?
?
?
none; Ethiopia is landlocked but by agreement with Eritrea may use the ports of Assab and Massawa
open wire to Sudan and Djibouti; microwave radio relay to Kenya and Djibouti; satellite earth stations - 3 Intelsat (1 Atlantic Ocean and 2 Pacific Ocean)
4
0
0
9900000
1
100000
Ground Forces, Air Force, Police
note: following the secession of Eritrea, Ethiopia's naval facilities remained in Eritrea's possession; current reorganization plans do not include a navy
#
12912144
6707180
583724
140000000
4.10
@Europa Island
France
#
#
Southern Africa, island in the Mozambique Channel, about one-half of the way from southern Madagascar to southern Mozambique
28
28
?
?
22.20
?
?
200
?
12
claimed by Madagascar
tropical
NA
Indian Ocean 0 m
unnamed location 24 m
negligible
?
?
?
?
?
0
NA
NA
NA
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
none
Europa Island
none
Ile Europa
French possession administered by Commissioner of the Republic; resident in Reunion
none; administered by France from Reunion
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
#
?
#
?
?
#
?
#
?
the flag of France is used
no economic activity
Transportation
#
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
1
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
none; offshore anchorage only
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
1
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
@Falkland Islands (islas Malvinas)
United Kingdom
0$Stanley$-5175$-5793$1650$
#
A group of over 100 islands in the S Atlantic. The two main islands,East
Falkland and West Falkland, lie 480km east of the southern tip of South
America. Invaded by Argentina, who had long laid claim to the islands, on 2
April 1982; recaptured by a British expeditionary force on 14 June 1982.
Spanish name: Islas Malvinas.
#
[GB]
Southern South America, islands in the South Atlantic Ocean, east of southern Argentina
12170
12170
?
?
1288
?
200 nm
?
200
12
administered by the UK, claimed by Argentina
cold marine; strong westerly winds, cloudy, humid; rain occurs on more than half of days in year; occasional snow all year, except in January and February, but does not accumulate
rocky, hilly, mountainous with some boggy, undulating plains
Atlantic Ocean 0 m
Mount Usborne 705 m
fish, wildlife
0
0
99
0
1
?
NA
strong winds persist throughout the year
NA
2374
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
2.43
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
Falkland Islander(s)
Falkland Island
British
#
primarily Anglican, Roman Catholic, United Free Church, Evangelist Church, Jehovah's Witnesses, Lutheran, Seventh-Day Adventist
English
?
?
?
Colony of the Falkland Islands
Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)
?
?
dependent territory of the UK
Stanley
none (dependent territory of the UK)
Independence: none (dependent territory of the UK)
#
?
Liberation Day, 14 June (1982)
3 October 1985
English common law
18 years of age; universal
Queen ELIZABETH II (of the UK since 6 February 1952) is a hereditary monarch
Governor R. RALPH (since NA) was appointed by the queen
#
Executive Council; three members elected by the Legislative Council, two ex-officio members (chief executive and the financial secretary), and the governor
#
unicameral
Legislative Council: elections last held 11 October 1989 (next was to be held NA October 1994); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (10 total, 8 elected) independents 8
#
Supreme Court
NA
#
?
#
ICFTU
blue with the flag of the UK in the upper hoist-side quadrant and the Falkland Island coat of arms in a white disk centered on the outer half of the flag; the coat of arms contains a white ram (sheep raising is the major economic activity) above the sailing ship Desire (whose crew discovered the islands) with a scroll at the bottom bearing the motto DESIRE THE RIGHT
The economy was formerly based on agriculture, mainly sheep farming, which directly or indirectly employs most of the work force. Dairy farming supports domestic consumption; crops furnish winter fodder. Exports feature shipments of high-grade wool to the UK and the sale of postage stamps and coins. Rich stocks of fish in the surrounding waters are not presently exploited by the islanders. So far, efforts to establish a domestic fishing industry have been unsuccessful. The economy has diversified since 1987, when the government began selling fishing licenses to foreign trawlers operating within the Falklands exclusive fishing zone. These license fees total more than $40 million per year and support the island's health, education, and welfare system. To encourage tourism, the Falkland Islands Development Corporation has built three lodges for visitors attracted by the abundant wildlife and trout fishing. The islands are now self-financing except for defense. The British Geological Survey announced a 200-mile oil exploration zone around the islands in 1993, and early seismic surveys suggest substantial reserves capable of producing 500,000 barrels per day. An agreement between Argentina and the United Kingdom in 1995 seeks to defuse licensing and sovereignty conflicts that would dampen foreign interest in exploiting potential oil reserves.
#
?
12500
30
?
?
?
?
1100
agriculture 95% (mostly sheepherding)
?
42.70
28.50
wool and fish processing
?
0.01
17
7253
fodder and vegetable crops; sheep farming, small dairy herds
?
5.40
wool, hides, meat
UK, Netherlands, Japan (1992)
26.20
food, clothing, timber, and machinery
UK, Netherlands Antilles (Curacao), Japan (1992)
?
ODA, $NA
?
1 Falkland pound (úF) = 100 pence
0.65
1 April - 31 March
?
510
30 km
480 km
?
?
?
?
Stanley
?
?
?
?
5
?
1
?
?
4
?
?
?
?
?
?
1180
government-operated radiotelephone and private VHF/CB radiotelephone networks provide effective service to almost all points on both islands
satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) with links through London to other countries
2
3
0
1000
1
?
British Forces Falkland Islands (includes Army, Royal Air Force, Royal Navy, and Royal Marines), Police Force
#
?
?
?
?
?
@Faroe Islands
Denmark
0$Th≤rshavn$6206$-688$16000$
#
#
[DK]
Northern Europe, island group between the Norwegian Sea and the north Atlantic Ocean, about one-half of the way from Iceland to Norway
1400
1400
?
?
764
?
?
?
200
3
none
mild winters, cool summers; usually overcast; foggy, windy
rugged, rocky, some low peaks; cliffs along most of coast
Atlantic Ocean 0 m
Slaettaratindur 882 m
fish
2
0
0
0
98
?
NA
NA
NA
43857
24
5461
5280
62
14488
12617
14
2661
3350
-1.80
13.91
8.69
-23.19
0.99
1.03
1.15
0.79
1.06
7.20
77.83
74.75
80.88
2.38
Faroese (singular and plural)
Faroese
Scandinavian
#
Evangelical Lutheran
Faroese (derived from Old Norse), Danish
?
?
?
none
Faroe Islands
none
Foroyar
part of the Danish realm; self-governing overseas administrative division of Denmark
Torshavn
none (self-governing overseas administrative division of Denmark)
Independence: none (part of the Danish realm; self-governing overseas administrative division of Denmark)
#
?
Birthday of the Queen, 16 April (1940)
5 June 1953 (Danish constitution)
Danish
18 years of age; universal
Queen MARGRETHE II (of Denmark since 14 January 1972), who is a constitutional monarch, is represented by High Commissioner Bent KLINTE, chief administrative officer (since NA)
Prime Minister Edmund JOENSEN (since 15 September 1994) was elected by the Logting
#
Landsstyri was elected by the Logting
#
unicameral
Faroese Parliament (Logting): elections last held 8 July 1994 (next to be held by July 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (32 total) Liberal Party 8, People's Party 6, Social Democrats 5, Republicans 4, Workers' Party 3, Christian Democrats 2, Center Party 2, Home Rule Party 2
Danish Parliament: elections last held on 21 September 1994 (next to be held by September 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (2 total) Liberals 2
#
none
Social Democratic Party, Marita PETERSEN; Workers Front, Oli JACOBSEN; Home Rule Party, Helena Dam A NEYSTABO; The "Coalition Party," Edmund JOENSEN; Republican Party, Finnbogi ISAKSON; Centrist Party, Tordur NICLASEN; Christian People's Party, Niels Pauli DANIELSEN; People's Party, Arnfinn KALLSBERG; Liberal Party, Jorgen ESTRUP; Christian Democratic Party
#
?
#
none
white with a red cross outlined in blue that extends to the edges of the flag; the vertical part of the cross is shifted to the hoist side in the style of the Dannebrog (Danish flag)
The Faroese economy is experiencing a moderate upturn after several years of decline brought on by over-fishing and declining fish prices, large budget deficits by the Faroese Home Rule Government (FHRG), plummeting property values, and a bail-out merger of the two largest Faroese banks. Near-term forecasts suggest continued economic recovery, and oil finds close to the Faroese area may lay the basis for an eventual economic rebound. Aided by a substantial annual subsidy from Denmark, the Faroese have enjoyed a standard of living comparable to the Danes and other Scandinavians.
#
?
12000
526
?
?
?
6.80
17585
largely engaged in fishing, manufacturing, transportation, and commerce
23
407.20
482.70
fishing, shipbuilding, handicrafts
?
0.09
200
3953
potatoes, vegetables; sheep; annual fish catch about 360,000 metric tons
?
345.30
fish and fish products 88%, animal feedstuffs, transport equipment (ships) (1989)
Denmark 20%, Germany 18.3%, UK 14.2%, France 11.2%, Spain 7.9%, US 4.5%
234.40
machinery and transport equipment 24.4%, manufactures 24%, food and livestock 19%, fuels 12%, chemicals 6.5%
Denmark 43.8%, Norway 19.8%, Sweden 4.9%, Germany 4.2%, US 1.3%
cyclonic storms can occur from November to January
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Law of the Sea, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Tropical Timber 83, Tropical Timber 94, Whaling
782381
35
141652
135829
62
240621
240620
3
11235
12424
1.28
23.37
6.35
-4.22
1.05
1.04
1
0.90
1.01
17.40
65.71
63.39
68.14
2.83
Fijian(s)
Fijian
Fijian 49%, Indian 46%, European, other Pacific Islanders, overseas Chinese, and other 5%
#
Christian 52% (Methodist 37%, Roman Catholic 9%), Hindu 38%, Muslim 8%, other 2%
English (official), Fijian, Hindustani
91.60
93.80
89.30
Republic of Fiji
Fiji
?
?
republic
Suva
4 divisions and 1 dependency*; Central, Eastern, Northern, Rotuma*, Western
Independence: 10 October 1970 (from UK)
#
?
Independence Day, 10 October (1970)
10 October 1970 (suspended 1 October 1987); a new Constitution was proposed on 23 September 1988 and promulgated on 25 July 1990; the 1990 Constitution is under review; the review is scheduled to be complete by 1997
based on British system
21 years of age; universal
President Ratu Sir Kamisese MARA (Acting President since 15 December 1993, President since 12 January 1994) was appointed for a five-year term by the Great Council of Chiefs; First Vice President Ratu Sir Josaia TAIVAIQIA (since 12 January 1994); Second Vice President Ratu Inoke TAKIVEIKATA (since 12 January 1994)
Prime Minister Sitiveni RABUKA (since 2 June 1992) was appointed by the president; Deputy Prime Minister Timoci VESIKULA (since NA)
Presidential Council: advises the president on matters of national importance
Great Council of Chiefs: highest ranking members of the traditional chiefly system
#
Cabinet was appointed by the prime minister from among the members of Parliament and is responsible to Parliament
#
bicameral Parliament
Senate: nonelective body, members are appointed by the president and serve five-year terms; seats - (34 total, 24 reserved for ethnic Fijians, 9 for Indians and others, and 1 for the island of Rotuma)
House of Representatives: members serve five-year terms; elections last held 18-25 February 1994 (next to be held NA 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (70 total, with ethnic Fijians allocated 37 seats, ethnic Indians 27 seats, and independents and other 6 seats) SVT 31, NFP 20, FLP 7, FAP 5, GVP 4, independents 2, ANC 1
#
Supreme Court
Fijian Political Party (SVT - primarily Fijian), leader Maj. Gen. Sitivini RABUKA; National Federation Party (NFP; primarily Indian), Jai Ram REDDY; Fijian Nationalist Party (FNP), Sakeasi BUTADROKA; Fiji Labor Party (FLP), Mahendra CHAUDHRY; General Voters Party (GVP), Leo SMITH; Fiji Conservative Party (FCP), leader NA; Conservative Party of Fiji (CPF), leader NA; Fiji Indian Liberal Party, leader NA; Fiji Indian Congress Party, leader NA; Fiji Independent Labor (Muslim), leader NA; Four Corners Party, leader NA; Fijian Association Party (FAP), Josevata KAMIKAMICA; General Electors' Association, leader NA
note: in early 1995, ethnic Fijian members of the All National Congress (ANC) merged with the Fijian Association (FA); the remaining members of the ANC have renamed their party the General Electors' Association
light blue with the flag of the UK in the upper hoist-side quadrant and the Fijian shield centered on the outer half of the flag; the shield depicts a yellow lion above a white field quartered by the cross of Saint George featuring stalks of sugarcane, a palm tree, bananas, and a white dove
Fiji, richly endowed with forest, mineral, and fish resources, is one of the most developed of the Pacific island economies, though still with a large subsistence sector. Sugar exports and tourism are the major sources of foreign exchange. Industry contributes 17% to GDP; sugar processing makes up one-third of industrial activity. Roughly 250,000 tourists visit each year. Political uncertainty and drought, however, contribute to substantial fluctuations in earnings from tourism and sugar and to the emigration of skilled workers. In 1992, growth was approximately 3%, based on growth in tourism and a lessening of labor-management disputes in the sugar and gold-mining sectors. In 1993, the government's budgeted growth rate of 3% was not achieved because of a decline in non-sugar agricultural output and damage from Cyclone Kina. Growth in 1994 of 5% was largely attributable to increased tourism and expansion in the manufacturing sector.
access to important cable link between US and Canada and NZ and Australia; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Pacific Ocean)
7
1
0
?
0
12000
Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF; includes army, navy, and air elements)
#
205616
113339
8746
28000000
2.50
@Finland
0
0$Helsinki$6025$2505$1020000$
#
Finland became an autonomous grand duchy of the Russian Empire in 1809,
after having been part of Sweden since 1154. Finland declared its
independence on 6 December 1917 and became a republic in 1919. Finland has
one legislative house, the Eduskunta, with 200 seats.
There are 12 provinces, each with its own governor.
#
SF
Northern Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea, Gulf of Bothnia, and Gulf of Finland, between Sweden and Russia
337030
305470
2628
Norway 729 km, Sweden 586 km, Russia 1,313 km
1126
6
200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
?
12
4
none
cold temperate; potentially subarctic, but comparatively mild because of moderating influence of the North Atlantic Current, Baltic Sea, and more than 60,000 lakes
mostly low, flat to rolling plains interspersed with lakes and low hills
Baltic Sea 0 m
Haltiatunturi 1,328 m
timber, copper, zinc, iron ore, silver
8
0
0
76
16
620
air pollution from manufacturing and power plants contributing to acid rain; water pollution from industrial wastes, agricultural chemicals; habitat loss threatens wildlife populations
NA
party to - Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Desertification, Law of the Sea
5105230
19
492616
471736
67
1725113
1687974
14
275927
451864
0.10
11.32
10.92
0.58
1.04
1.04
1.02
0.61
0.96
4.90
75.47
73.82
77.18
1.68
Finn(s)
Finnish
Finn, Swede, Lapp, Gypsy, Tatar
#
Evangelical Lutheran 89%, Greek Orthodox 1%, none 9%, other 1%
Finnish 93.5% (official), Swedish 6.3% (official), small Lapp- and Russian-speaking minorities
100
?
?
Republic of Finland
Finland
Suomen Tasavalta
Suomi
republic
Helsinki
12 provinces (laanit, singular - laani); Ahvenanmaa, Hame, Keski-Suomi, Kuopio, Kymi, Lappi, Mikkeli, Oulu, Pohjois-Karjala, Turku ja Pori, Uusimaa, Vaasa
Independence: 6 December 1917 (from Soviet Union)
#
?
Independence Day, 6 December (1917)
17 July 1919
civil law system based on Swedish law; Supreme Court may request legislation interpreting or modifying laws; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with reservations
18 years of age; universal
President Martti AHTISAARI (since 1 March 1994) was elected for a six-year term by popular vote; election last held 31 January-6 February 1994 (next to be held NA January 2000); results - Martti AHTISAARI 54%, Elisabeth REHN 46%
Prime Minister Paavo LIPPONEN (since 13 April 1995) and Deputy Prime Minister Sauli NIINISTO (since 13 April 1995) were appointed by the president
#
Council of State (Valtioneuvosto) was appointed by the president, responsible to Parliament
#
unicameral
Parliament (Eduskunta): elections last held 19 March 1995 (next to be held NA March 1999); results - Social Democratic Party 28.3%, Center Party 19.9%, National Coalition (Conservative) Party 17.9%, Leftist Alliance (Communist) 11.2%, Swedish People's Party 5.1%, Green League 6.5%, Ecology Party 0.3%, Rural 1.3%, Finnish Christian League 3.0%, Liberal People's Party 0.6%, Young Finns 2.8%; seats - (200 total) Social Democratic Party 63, Center Party 44, National Coalition (Conservative) Party 39, Leftist Alliance (Communist) 22, Swedish People's Party 11, Green League 9, Ecology Party 1, Rural 1, Finnish Christian League 7, Young Finns 2, Aaland Islands 1
#
Supreme Court (Korkein Oikeus), judges appointed by the president
government coalition: Social Democratic Party, Paavo LIPPONEN; National Coalition (conservative) Party, Sauli NIINISTO; Leftist Alliance (Communist) People's Democratic League and Democratic Alternative, Claes ANDERSSON; Swedish People's Party, (Johan) Ole NORRBACK; Green League, Pekka HAAVISTO
#
Finnish Communist Party-Unity, Yrjo HAKANEN; Constitutional Rightist Party; Finnish Pensioners Party; Communist Workers Party, Timo LAHDENMAKI
white with a blue cross that extends to the edges of the flag; the vertical part of the cross is shifted to the hoist side in the style of the Dannebrog (Danish flag)
Finland has a highly industrialized, largely free-market economy, with per capita output equaling that of the UK, France and Italy. Its key economic sector is manufacturing - principally the wood, metals, and engineering industries. Trade is important, with the export of goods representing about 30% of GDP. Except for timber and several minerals, Finland depends on imports of raw materials, energy, and some components for manufactured goods. Because of the climate, agricultural development is limited to maintaining self-sufficiency in basic products. Forestry, an important export earner, provides a secondary occupation for the rural population. The economy, which experienced an average of 4.9% annual growth between 1987 and 1989, sank into deep recession in 1991 as GDP contracted by 6.5%. The recession - which continued in 1992 with GDP contracting by 4.1% - has been caused by economic overheating, depressed foreign markets, and the dismantling of the barter system between Finland and the former Soviet Union under which Soviet oil and gas had been exchanged for Finnish manufactured goods. The Finnish Government has proposed efforts to increase industrial competitiveness and efficiency by an increase in exports to Western markets, cuts in public expenditures, partial privatization of state enterprises, and changes in monetary policy. In June 1991 Helsinki had tied the markka to the European Union's (EU) European Currency Unit (ECU) to promote stability. Ongoing speculation resulting from a lack of confidence in the government's policies forced Helsinki to devalue the markka by about 12% in November 1991 and to indefinitely break the link in September 1992. The devaluations have boosted the competitiveness of Finnish exports. The recession bottomed out in 1993, and Finland participated in the general European upturn of 1994. Unemployment probably will remain a serious problem during the next few years; the majority of Finnish firms face a weak domestic market and the troubled German and Swedish e
xport markets. The Finns voted in an October 1994 referendum to enter the EU, and Finland officially joined the Union on 1 January 1995. Increasing integration with Western Europe will dominate the economic picture over the next few years.
#
5
20740
105882
4.60
28
67.40
2
2533000
public services 30.4%, industry 20.9%, commerce 15.0%, finance, insurance, and business services 10.2%, agriculture and forestry 8.6%, transport and communications 7.7%, construction 7.2%
17
21700
31700.00
metal products, shipbuilding, pulp and paper, copper refining, foodstuffs, chemicals, textiles, clothing
5
13.36
58000
12196
cereals, sugar beets, potatoes; dairy cattle; annual fish catch about 160,000 metric tons
transshipment point for Latin American cocaine for the West European market
29700
paper and pulp, machinery, chemicals, metals, timber
EU 46.5% (Germany 13.4%, UK 10.3%), Sweden 11%, US 7.2%, Japan 2.1%, FSU 8.6% (1994)
23200.00
foodstuffs, petroleum and petroleum products, chemicals, transport equipment, iron and steel, machinery, textile yarn and fabrics, fodder grains
EU 44% (Germany 15%, UK 8.3%), Sweden 10.4%, US 7.6%, Japan 6.5%, FSU 10.3 (1994)
30000
?
ODA, $355 million (1993)
1 markka (FMk) or Finmark = 100 pennia
4.44
calendar year
5895
5,895 km 1.524-m gauge (1,993 km electrified; 480 km double- or more-track) (1995)
Center Party, Esko AHO; Finnish Christian League, Toimi KANKAANNIEMI; Rural Party, Raimo VISTBACKA; Liberal People's Party, Tuulikki UKKOLA; Greens Ecological Party (EPV); Young Finns, Risto PENTTILAE
1 submarine cable; satellite earth stations - access to Intelsat transmission service via a Swedish satellite earth station, 1 Inmarsat (Atlantic and Indian Ocean Regions); note - Finland shares the Inmarsat earth station with the other Nordic countries (Denmark, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden)
6
105
0
4980000
235
2100000
Army, Navy, Air Force, Frontier Guard (includes Sea Guard)
#
1307128
1074540
32760
1900000000
1.60
@France
0
0$Paris$4883$233$9318000$
1$Lyon$4577$483$1262000$
1$Marseille$4330$536$1230000$
1$Lille$5064$305$959000$
1$Bordeaux$4486$-050$696000$
1$Toulouse$4362$145$650000$
1$Nice$4370$723$516000$
1$Nantes$4720$-156$496000$
1$Toulon$4315$592$437000$
1$Grenoble$4519$569$404000$
1$Strasbourg$4858$775$388000$
1$Rouen$4944$107$380000$
1$Valenciennes$5033$357$338000$
1$Nancy$4869$619$329000$
1$Lens$5043$283$323000$
1$Saint-Etienne$4545$440$313000$
1$Tours$4742$067$282000$
1$BΘthune$5050$264$261000$
1$Clermont-Ferrand$4578$308$254000$
1$Le Havre$4951$011$254000$
1$Rennes$4812$-168$205000$
1$Montpellier$4362$387$195000$
1$Metz$4914$617$193000$
1$Reims$4925$400$183610$
1$Brest$4840$-448$172000$
1$Dijon$4733$500$151000$
1$Limoges$4583$125$147000$
1$Amiens$4990$227$135000$
1$Caen$4917$-037$122794$
1$Versailles$4880$0213$95240$
1$Saint-Priest-En-Jarez$4548$438$6500$
3$Mont Blanc$4586$679$4807$
3$Monte Cinto$4238$893$2710$
#
Celtic Gaul was conquered by Julius Caesar 58-51 BC. Romans ruled for 500
years. Under Charlemagne, Frankish rule extended over much of Europe. France
emerged as a kingdom after his death. The French Revolution (1789-93)
overthrew the monarchy, establishing the First Republic. Napoleon created
the First Empire (1804-15). This was succeeded by a monarchy (1814-48), the
Second Republic (1848-52), the Second Empire (1852-70), the Third Republic
(1871-1946), the Fourth Republic (1946-58), and the Fifth Republic
(1958-present). The new constitution of 1958 extended the powers of the
president and at the same time limited those of the parliament. The
president is directly elected for a period of seven years and selects the
prime-minister and other ministers, who answer to parliament. Parliament
consists of two legislative houses: the Senate, whose 304 members are
indirectly elected for a term of 9 years by local councils, and the National
Assembly, with 491 members, chosen through general election. France has 22
administrative regions, divided into 96 departments. In addition, there are
6 overseas departments: French Guiana, Guadeloupe, Martinique, Mayotte,
Reunion, and St. Pierre and Miquelon. All except Mayotte are represented in
the French parliament. France also possesses 5 overseas territories: French
Polynesia, French Southern and Antarctic Lands, Kerguelen Archipelago, New
Caledonia, and Wallis and Futuna Islands. These are administered by a
General Council and a governor is appointed for each territory.
#
F
Western Europe, bordering the Bay of Biscay and English Channel, between Belgium and Spain southeast of the UK; bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Italy and Spain
547030
545630
2892.40
Andorra 60 km, Belgium 620 km, Germany 451 km, Italy 488 km, Luxembourg 73 km, Monaco 4.4 km, Spain 623 km, Switzerland 573 km
3427
24
200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
200
?
12
Madagascar claims Bassas da India, Europa Island, Glorioso Islands, Juan de Nova Island, and Tromelin Island; Comoros claims Mayotte; Mauritius claims Tromelin Island; Seychelles claims Tromelin Island; Suriname claims part of French Guiana; Mexico claims Clipperton Island; territorial claim in Antarctica (Adelie Land); Saint Pierre and Miquelon is focus of maritime boundary dispute between Canada and France; claims Matthew and Hunter Islands east of New Caledonia
generally cool winters and mild summers, but mild winters and hot summers along the Mediterranean
mostly flat plains or gently rolling hills in north and west; remainder is mountainous, especially Pyrenees in south, Alps in east
Rhone River delta -2 m
Mont Blanc 4,807 m
coal, iron ore, bauxite, fish, timber, zinc, potash
32
2
23
27
16
14850
some forest damage from acid rain; air pollution from industrial and vehicle emissions; water pollution from urban wastes, agricultural runoff
flooding
party to - Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Desertification, Law of the Sea
58317450
19.04
5688505
5417355
65.62
19147369
19120935
15.34
3589100
5354186
0.34
10.82
9.27
1.88
1.05
1.05
1
0.67
0.95
5.30
77.93
73.98
82.11
1.49
Frenchman(men), Frenchwoman(women)
French
Celtic and Latin with Teutonic, Slavic, North African, Indochinese, Basque minorities
#
Roman Catholic 90%, Protestant 2%, Jewish 1%, Muslim (North African workers) 1%, unaffiliated 6%
French 100%, rapidly declining regional dialects and languages (Provencal, Breton, Alsatian, Corsican, Catalan, Basque, Flemish)
99
99
99
French Republic
France
Republique Francaise
France
republic
Paris
22 regions (regions, singular - region); Alsace, Aquitaine, Auvergne, Basse-Normandie, Bourgogne, Bretagne, Centre, Champagne-Ardenne, Corse, Franche-Comte, Haute-Normandie, Ile-de-France, Languedoc-Roussillon, Limousin, Lorraine, Midi-Pyrenees, Nord-Pas-de-Calais, Pays de la Loire, Picardie, Poitou-Charentes, Provence-Alpes-Cote d'Azur, Rhone-Alpes
note: metropolitan France is divided into 22 regions (including the "territorial collectivity" of Corse or Corsica) and are subdivided into 96 departments; see separate entries for the overseas departments (French Guiana, Guadeloupe, Martinique, Reunion) and the territorial collectivities (Mayotte, Saint Pierre and Miquelon)
#
Bassas da India, Clipperton Island, Europa Island, French Polynesia, French Southern and Antarctic Lands, Glorioso Islands, Juan de Nova Island, New Caledonia, Tromelin Island, Wallis and Futuna
National Day, Taking of the Bastille, 14 July (1789)
28 September 1958, amended concerning election of president in 1962, amended to comply with provisions of EC Maastricht Treaty in 1992; amended to tighten immigration laws 1993
civil law system with indigenous concepts; review of administrative but not legislative acts
18 years of age; universal
President Jacques CHIRAC (since 17 May 1995) was elected for a seven-year term by direct universal suffrage; election last held 17 May 1995 (next to be held by May 2002); results - Second Ballot Jacques CHIRAC 52.64%, Lionel JOSPIN 47.36%
Prime Minister Alain JUPPE (since 18 May 1995) was appointed by the president
#
the Council of Ministers was appointed by the president on the suggestion of the prime minister
#
bicameral Parliament (Parlement)
Senate (Senat): elections last held 24 September 1995 (next to be held September 1998; nine-year term, elected by thirds every three years); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (321 total; 296 metropolitan France, 13 for overseas departments and territories, and 12 for French nationals abroad) RPR 91, UDF 132, PS 75, PCF 16, other 7
National Assembly (Assemblee Nationale): elections last held 21 and 28 March 1993 (next to be held NA 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (577 total) RPR 247, UDF 213, PS 67, PCF 24, independents 26; note - seating as of 24 September 1995: RPR 247, UDF 208, PS 71, PCF 24, independents 27
#
Supreme Court of Appeals (Cour de Cassation), judges are appointed by the president from nominations of the High Council of the Judiciary
Rally for the Republic (RPR), Alain JUPPE, president; Union for French Democracy (UDF - coalition of PR, FD, RAD, PSD), Francois LEOTARD; Republican Party (PR), Francois LEOTARD; Democratic Force (FD), Francois BAYROU; Radical (RAD), Andre ROSSINOT; Socialist Party (PS), Lionel JOSPIN; Left Radical Movement (MRG); Communist Party (PCF), Robert HUE; National Front (FN), Jean-Marie LE PEN; The Greens, Dominique VOYNET; Generation Ecology (GE), Brice LALONDE; Citizens Movement (MDC), Jean Pierre CHEVENEMENT
#
Communist-controlled labor union (Confederation Generale du Travail - CGT) nearly 2.4 million members (claimed); Socialist-leaning labor union (Confederation Francaise Democratique du Travail - CFDT) about 800,000 members (est.); independent labor union (Force Ouvriere) 1 million members (est.); independent white-collar union (Confederation Generale des Cadres) 340,000 members (claimed); National Council of French Employers (Conseil National du Patronat Francais - CNPF or Patronat)
three equal vertical bands of blue (hoist side), white, and red; known as the French Tricouleur (Tricolor); the design and colors are similar to a number of other flags, including those of Belgium, Chad, Ireland, Cote d'Ivoire, and Luxembourg; the official flag for all French dependent areas
One of the four West European trillion-dollar economies, the French economy features considerable - albeit diminishing - state control over its capitalistic market system. In running important industrial segments (railways, airlines, electricity, telecommunications), administrating an exceptionally generous social welfare system, and staffing an enormous bureaucracy, the state spends about 55% of GDP. France has substantial agricultural resources and a diversified modern industrial sector. Large tracts of fertile land, the application of modern technology, and subsidies have combined to make it the leading agricultural producer in Western Europe. Largely self-sufficient in agricultural products, France is a major exporter of wheat and dairy products. The industrial sector generates about one-quarter of GDP, and the growing services sector has become crucial to the economy. Following stagnation and recession in 1991-93, French GDP expanded 2.4% in 1994 and in 1995. Persistently high unemployment still poses a major problem for the government, as will the need to cut back on welfare benefits and bureaucratic budgets. Paris remains committed to maintaining the franc-deutsche mark parity, which has kept French interest rates high at the expense of jobs. Although the pace of economic and financial integration within the European Union has slowed down, integration will remain a major force in France, shaping the fortunes of the various economic sectors over the next few years.
#
2.40
25060
1461435
2.40
26.50
71.10
1.70
24170000
services 61.5%, industry 31.3%, agriculture 7.2% (1987)
wheat, cereals, sugar beets, potatoes, wine grapes; beef, dairy products; fish catch of 850,000 metric tons ranks among world's top 20 countries and is all used domestically
transshipment point for South American cocaine and Southwest Asian heroin
235500
machinery and transportation equipment, chemicals, foodstuffs, agricultural products, iron and steel products, textiles and clothing
Germany 17.1%, Italy 9.3%, Spain 7.1%, Belgium-Luxembourg 8.7%, UK 9.9%, Netherlands 4.6%, US 7.0%, Japan 2.0%, Russia 0.5%
229300.00
crude oil, machinery and equipment, agricultural products, chemicals, iron and steel products
Germany 17.8%, Italy 10.1%, US 8.5%, Netherlands 4.9%, Spain 8.8%, Belgium-Luxembourg 9.1%, UK 7.9%, Japan 3.7%, Russia 1.2%
300000
?
ODA, $7.915 billion (1993)
1 French franc (F) = 100 centimes
5.01
calendar year
33891
33,524 km 1.435-m gauge; 32,275 km are operated by French National Railways (SNCF); 13,741 km of SNCF routes are electrified and 12,132 km are double- or multiple-tracked
367 km 1.000-m gauge
1511200
811,200 km (including 7,700 km of expressways)
700,000 km (1992 est.)
14932
3059
4487
24746
Bordeaux, Boulogne, Cherbourg, Dijon, Dunkerque, La Pallice, Le Havre, Lyon, Marseille, Mulhouse, Nantes, Paris, Rouen, Saint Nazaire, Saint Malo, Strasbourg
extensive cable and microwave radio relay; extensive introduction of fiber-optic cable; domestic satellite system
satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (with total of 5 antennas - 2 for Indian Ocean and 3 for Atlantic Ocean), NA Eutelsat, 1 Inmarsat (Atlantic Ocean Region); HF radiotelephone communications with more than 20 countries
41
800
0
49000000
846
29300000
Army, Navy (includes Naval Air), Air Force and Air Defense, National Gendarmerie
#
14782577
12299651
383252
47700000000
2.50
@French Guiana
France
0$Cayenne$493$-5233$55000$
#
Original inhabitants included Arawak and Galibi indians. The first Spanish
explorers arrived around 1500, followed by the French, who founded the town
of Cayenne about 1634. It became a French territory in 1667 following the
Peace of Breda. Slaves were imported to work on the sugar plantations. After
the abolishment of slavery in 1848, Asian workers were recruited. Guiana
sends one senator and one deputy to the French parliament. It is
administered by a prefect and has a Council General of 16 elected members.
#
[F]
Northern South America, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Brazil and Suriname
91000
89150
1183
Brazil 673 km, Suriname 510 km
378
?
?
200
?
12
Suriname claims area between Riviere Litani and Riviere Marouini (both headwaters of the Lawa)
tropical; hot, humid; little seasonal temperature variation
low-lying coastal plains rising to hills and small mountains
Atlantic Ocean 0 m
Bellevue de l'Inini 851 m
bauxite, timber, gold (widely scattered), cinnabar, kaolin, fish
0
0
0
88
12
?
NA
high frequency of heavy showers and severe thunderstorms; flooding
NA
151187
32
24447
23378
63
52061
43726
5
3784
3791
3.86
24.68
4.59
18.52
1.05
1.05
1.19
1
1.13
14.60
75.79
72.55
79.19
3.42
French Guianese (singular and plural)
French Guianese
black or mulatto 66%, white 12%, East Indian, Chinese, Amerindian 12%, other 10%
#
Roman Catholic
French
83
84
82
Department of Guiana
French Guiana
none
Guyane
overseas department of France
Cayenne
none (overseas department of France)
Independence: none (overseas department of France)
#
?
National Day, Taking of the Bastille, 14 July (1789)
28 September 1958 (French Constitution)
French legal system
18 years of age; universal
President (of France) Jacques CHIRAC (since 17 May 1995); represented by Prefect Pierre DARTOUT who was appointed by the French Ministry of Interior
President of the General Council Stephan PHINERA-HORTH (since March 1994)
#
?
#
unicameral General Council and a unicameral Regional Council
General Council: elections last held NA March 1994 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (19 total) PSG 8, RPR 2, UDF 1, other right 1, other 7
Regional Council: elections last held 22 March 1992 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (31 total) PSG 16, FDG 10, RPR 2, independents 3
French Senate: elections last held 24 September 1989 (next to be held September 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (1 total) PSG 1
French National Assembly: elections last held 21 and 28 March 1993 (next to be held NA 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (2 total) RPR 1, independent 1
#
Court of Appeals (highest local court based in Martinique with jurisdiction over Martinique, Guadeloupe, and French Guiana)
Guianese Socialist Party (PSG), Raymond TRACY; Conservative Union for the Republic (UPR), Leon BERTRAND; Rally for the Center Right (URC); Rally for the Republic (RPR); Guyana Democratic Front (FDG), Georges OTHILY; Walwari Committee, Christine TAUBIRA-DELANON; Socialist Party (PS), Jean BART; Union for French Democracy (UDF), R. CHOW-CHINE
#
?
#
FZ, WCL, WFTU
the flag of France is used
The economy is tied closely to that of France through subsidies and imports. Besides the French space center at Kourou, fishing and forestry are the most important economic activities, with exports of fish and fish products (mostly shrimp) accounting for more than 60% of total revenue in 1992. The large reserves of tropical hardwoods, not fully exploited, support an expanding sawmill industry that provides sawn logs for export. Cultivation of crops is limited to the coastal area, where the population is largely concentrated. French Guiana is heavily dependent on imports of food and energy. Unemployment is a serious problem, particularly among younger workers.
#
?
9000
1361
?
?
?
2.50
36597
services, government, and commerce 60.6%, industry 21.2%, agriculture 18.2% (1980)
small amount of marijuana grown for local consumption; minor transshipment point to Europe
110
shrimp, timber, rum, rosewood essence
France 52%, Spain 15%, US 5% (1992)
719
food (grains, processed meat), other consumer goods, producer goods, petroleum
France 77%, Germany 11%, US 5% (1992)
1200
ODA, $NA
?
1 French franc (F) = 100 centimes
5.01
calendar year
?
1817
727 km
1,090 km (1995 est.)
460
?
?
?
Cayenne, Degrad des Cannes, Saint-Laurent du Maroni
?
?
?
?
10
1
?
?
2
4
?
?
?
3
?
?
31000
fair open wire and microwave radio relay system
satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean)
5
7
0
79000
9
22000
French Forces, Gendarmerie
#
43412
28171
?
?
?
@French Polynesia
France
0$Papeete$-1753$-14957$95000$
#
#
[F]
Oceania, archipelago in the South Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from South America to Australia
4167
3660
?
?
2525
?
?
200
?
12
none
tropical, but moderate
mixture of rugged high islands and low islands with reefs
Pacific Ocean 0 m
Mount Orohena 2,241 m
timber, fish, cobalt
1
19
5
31
44
?
NA
occasional cyclonic storms in January
NA
224911
35
40450
39038
61
70506
65620
4
4636
4661
2.19
27.15
5.27
0
1.05
1.04
1.07
1
1.06
14.40
70.94
68.49
73.50
3.26
French Polynesian(s)
French Polynesian
Polynesian 78%, Chinese 12%, local French 6%, metropolitan French 4%
#
Protestant 54%, Roman Catholic 30%, other 16%
French (official), Tahitian (official)
98
98
98
Territory of French Polynesia
French Polynesia
Territoire de la Polynesie Francaise
Polynesie Francaise
overseas territory of France since 1946
Papeete
none (overseas territory of France); there are no first-order administrative divisions as defined by the US Government, but there are 5 archipelagic divisions named Archipel des Marquises, Archipel des Tuamotu, Archipel des Tubuai, Iles du Vent, and Iles Sous-le-Vent
note: Clipperton Island is administered by France from French Polynesia
Independence: none (overseas territory of France)
#
?
National Day, Taking of the Bastille, 14 July (1789)
28 September 1958 (French Constitution)
based on French system
18 years of age; universal
President (of France) Jacques CHIRAC (since 17 May 1995); represented by High Commissioner of the Republic Paul RONCIERE (since 8 August 1994) who was appointed by the French Ministry of Interior
President of the Territorial Government of French Polynesia Gaston FLOSSE (since 4 April 1991); President of the Territorial Assembly Tinomana EBB (since NA)
#
Council of Ministers; president submits a list of members of the Territorial Assembly for approval by them to serve as ministers
#
unicameral
Territorial Assembly: elections last held 17 March 1991 (next to be held NA March 1996); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (41 total) People's Rally for the Republic (Gaullist) 18, Polynesian Union Party 12, New Fatherland Party 7, other 4
French Senate: elections last held 24 September 1989 (next to be held NA September 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (1 total) party NA
French National Assembly: elections last held 21 and 28 March 1993 (next to be held NA March 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (2 total) People's Rally for the Republic (Gaullist) 2
#
Court of Appeal; Court of the First Instance; Court of Administrative Law
People's Rally for the Republic (Tahoeraa Huiraatira), Gaston FLOSSE; Polynesian Union Party (includes Te Tiarama and Here Ai'a Party), Jean JUVENTIN; New Fatherland Party (Ai'a Api), Emile VERNAUDON; Independent Party (Ia Mana Te Nunaa), Jacques DROLLET; Te Aratia Ote Nunaa, Tinomana EBB; Haere i Mua, Alexandre LEONTIEFF; other small parties
#
?
#
ESCAP (associate), FZ, ICFTU, SPC, WMO
two narrow red horizontal bands encase a wide white band; centered on the white band is a disk with blue and white wave pattern on the lower half and gold and white ray pattern on the upper half; a stylized red, blue and white ship rides on the wave pattern; the French flag is used for official occasions
Since 1962, when France stationed military personnel in the region, French Polynesia has changed from a subsistence economy to one in which a high proportion of the work force is either employed by the military or supports the tourist industry. Tourism accounts for about 20% of GDP and is a primary source of hard currency earnings. The territory will continue to benefit from a five-year (1994-98) development agreement with France aimed principally at creating new jobs.
#
?
7600
1709
4
18
78
1.50
76630
agriculture 13%, industry 19%, services 68% (1992 est.)
satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Pacific Ocean)
5
2
0
116000
6
35000
French Forces (includes Army, Navy, Air Force), Gendarmerie
Defense note: defense is the responsibility of France
#
?
?
?
?
?
@French Southern and Antarctic Lands
0
#
#
Southern Africa, islands in the southern Indian Ocean, about equidistant between Africa, Antarctica, and Australia; note - French Southern and Antarctic Lands includes Ile Amsterdam, Ile Saint-Paul, Iles Crozet, and Iles Kerguelen in the southern Indian Ocean, along with the French-claimed sector of Antarctica, "Adelie Land"; the US does not recognize the French claim to "Adelie Land"
7781
7781
?
?
1232
?
?
200
?
12
"Adelie Land" claim in Antarctica is not recognized by the US
antarctic
volcanic
Indian Ocean 0 m
Mont Ross on Kerguelen 1,850 m
fish, crayfish
0
0
0
0
100
0
NA
Ile Amsterdam and Ile Saint-Paul are extinct volcanoes
NA
0
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
Territory of the French Southern and Antarctic Lands
French Southern and Antarctic Lands
Territoire des Terres Australes et Antarctiques Francaises
Terres Australes et Antarctiques Francaises
overseas territory of France since 1955; governed by High Administrator Christian DORS (since 4 December 1991)
none; administered from Paris, France
none (overseas territory of France); there are no first-order administrative divisions as defined by the US Government, but there are 3 districts named Ile Crozet, Iles Kerguelen, and Iles Saint-Paul et Amsterdam; excludes "Adelie Land" claim in Antarctica that is not recognized by the US
Independence: none (overseas territory of France)
#
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
#
?
#
?
?
#
?
#
?
the flag of France is used
Economic activity is limited to servicing meteorological and geophysical research stations and French and other fishing fleets. The fish catches landed on Iles Kerguelen by foreign ships are exported to France and Reunion.
Little is known of the ancient history or inhabitants of Gabon. The first
European to sight the Gabonese coast was probably the Portuguese captain,
Lopo Gonτalves, in 1470. Intensive slave trading decimated the indigenous
population. In the second half of the 19th century, France established
control over the region and Gabon became successively a French colony, part
of French Congo, and a separate colony within French Equatorial Africa.
Gabon became independent on 17 August 1960. It has been a single-party state
since March 1968. Government development programs, foreign investment, and
abundant natural resources have made Gabon one of the most prosperous
African nations. Executive power lies with the president, chosen by general
election for a 7-year term. The National Assembly has 84 elected and 9
nominated members, all belonging to the Parti DΘmocratique Gabonais (PDG).
Gabon is divided into 9 provinces, consisting of 37 prefectures. A governor,
nominated by the president, is head of each province.
#
G
Western Africa, bordering the Atlantic Ocean at the Equator, between Congo and Equatorial Guinea
267670
257670
2551
Cameroon 298 km, Congo 1,903 km, Equatorial Guinea 350 km
885
24
?
200
?
12
maritime boundary dispute with Equatorial Guinea because of disputed sovereignty over islands in Corisco Bay
tropical; always hot, humid
narrow coastal plain; hilly interior; savanna in east and south
Atlantic Ocean 0 m
Mont Iboundji 1,575 m
petroleum, manganese, uranium, gold, timber, iron ore
1
1
18
78
2
?
deforestation; poaching
NA
party to - Endangered Species, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Law of the Sea, Tropical Timber 94
1172798
34
197188
196562
61
364033
353451
5
30270
31294
1.47
28.22
13.56
0
1.03
1
1.03
0.97
1.02
90.10
55.59
52.72
58.56
3.89
Gabonese (singular and plural)
Gabonese
Bantu tribes including four major tribal groupings (Fang, Eshira, Bapounou, Bateke), other Africans and Europeans 100,000, including 27,000 French
#
Christian 55%-75%, Muslim less than 1%, animist
French (official), Fang, Myene, Bateke, Bapounou/Eschira, Bandjabi
Renovation Day, 12 March (1968) (Gabonese Democratic Party established)
adopted 14 March 1991
based on French civil law system and customary law; judicial review of legislative acts in Constitutional Chamber of the Supreme Court; compulsory ICJ jurisdiction not accepted
21 years of age; universal
President El Hadj Omar BONGO (since 2 December 1967) was elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage on 5 December 1993 (next election to be held 1998); results - President Omar BONGO received 51% of the vote
Prime Minister Paulin OBAME Nguema (since 9 December 1994) was appointed by the president
#
Council of Ministers was appointed by the prime minister in consultation with the president
#
unicameral; note - the provision of the constitution for the establishment of a senate has not been implemented
National Assembly (Assemblee Nationale): elections last held on 5 December 1993 (next to be held by July 1996, according to the October 1994 Paris Accords; however, President BONGO has indicated that date might slip); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (120 total) PDG 64, National Recovery Movement - Lumberjacks (Morena-Bucherons/RNB) 17, PGP 12, National Recovery Movement (Morena-Original) 2, PUP 4, CLR 1, FAR 4, UPG 1, independents 15
#
Supreme Court (Cour Supreme)
Gabonese Democratic Party (PDG, former sole party), Simplice Guedet MANZELA, secretary general; Circle of Liberal Reformers (CLR), General Jean Boniface ASSELE; People's Unity Party (PUP), Louis Gaston MAYILA; Gabonese Socialist Union (USG), Dr. Serge Mba BEKALE; National Recovery Movement - Lumberjacks (Morena-Bucherons/RNB), Fr. Paul M'BA-ABESSOLE; Gabonese Party for Progress (PGP), Pierre-Louis AGONDHO-OKAWE, president; National Recovery Movement (Morena-Origina), note - this party won 2 seats in the 5 December 1993 elections for the National Assembly but is no longer very active; Gabonese Party for Progress (PGP), Pierre Louis AGONDJO OKAWE; African Forum for Reconstruction (FAR), Leon MBOU-YEMBI, secretary general; Gabonese People's Union (UPG), Pierre MAMBOUNDOU
three equal horizontal bands of green (top), yellow, and blue
Notwithstanding its serious ongoing economic problems, Gabon enjoys a per capita income more than three times that of most nations of sub-Saharan Africa. Gabon depended on timber and manganese until oil was discovered offshore in the early 1970s. The oil sector now accounts for 50% of GDP. Real GDP growth has been feeble since 1992 and Gabon continues to face the problem of fluctuating prices for its oil, timber, manganese, and uranium exports. Despite an abundance of natural wealth, and a manageable rate of population growth, the economy is hobbled by poor fiscal management. In 1992, the fiscal deficit widened to 2.4% of GDP, and Gabon failed to settle arrears on its bilateral debt, leading to a cancellation of rescheduling agreements with official and private creditors. Devaluation of its Francophone currency by 50% on 12 January 1994 sparked a one-time inflationary surge, to 35%; the rate dropped to 15% in 1995. Nevertheless, the government must continue to keep a tight rein on spending and wage increases. The IMF and France are considering offering financial assistance in 1996 if Gabon shows progress in privatization and fiscal discipline.
#
2
3800
4457
8.20
44.70
47.10
15
120000
agriculture 65.0%, industry and commerce 30.0%, services 2.5%, government 2.5%
10
1300
1600.00
food and beverage; textile; lumbering and plywood; cement; petroleum extraction and refining; manganese, uranium, and gold mining; chemicals; ship repair
-3
0.32
910
757
cocoa, coffee, sugar, palm oil; rubber; okoume (a tropical softwood); cattle; small fishing operations (provide a catch of about 20,000 metric tons)
?
2100
crude oil 80%, timber 14%, manganese 6%, uranium
US 50%, France 16%, Japan 8%, Spain 6%, Germany NA (1994 est.)
800
foodstuffs, chemical products, petroleum products, construction materials, manufactures, machinery
France 35%, African countries, US, Japan, Netherlands (1994)
3800.00
ODA, $75 million (1993)
?
1 Communaute Financiere Africaine franc (CFAF) = 100 centimes
adequate system of cable, microwave radio relay, tropospheric scatter, radiotelephone communication stations, and a domestic satellite system with 12 earth stations
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Desertification
English (official), Mandinka, Wolof, Fula, other indigenous vernaculars
38.60
52.80
24.90
Republic of The Gambia
The Gambia
?
?
republic under multiparty democratic rule
Banjul
5 divisions and 1 city*; Banjul*, Lower River, MacCarthy Island, North Bank, Upper River, Western
Independence: 18 February 1965 (from UK; The Gambia and Senegal signed an agreement on 12 December 1981 that called for the creation of a loose confederation to be known as Senegambia, but the agreement was dissolved on 30 September 1989)
#
?
Independence Day, 18 February (1965)
24 April 1970; suspended July 1994
based on a composite of English common law, Koranic law, and customary law; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with reservations
21 years of age; universal
Chairman of the Armed Forces Provisional Ruling Council Capt. Yahya A. J. J. JAMMEH (since the military coup of 22 July 1994); Vice Chairman of the Armed Forces Provisional Ruling Council Capt. Edward SINGHATEH (since March 1995); last popular election held on 29 April 1992; results - Sir Dawda JAWARA (PPP) 58.5%, Sherif Mustapha DIBBA (NCP) 22.2%, Assan Musa CAMARA (GPP) 8.0% (prior to the 22 July 1994 coup, next election had been scheduled for April 1997)
?
#
Cabinet normally is appointed by the president from members of the House of Representatives (present cabinet appointed by Chairman of the Armed Forces Provisional Ruling Council)
#
unicameral
House of Representatives: last popular election held on 29 April 1992 (next to be held NA April 1997); results - PPP won 58.1% of votes; seats - (43 total, 36 elected) PPP 30, NCP 6
note: following the military coup on 22 July 1994, all elective offices were dissolved; in April 1996, the military government announced that voter registrations would begin in May and democratic elections would be held in October 1996
#
Supreme Court
the following political parties were active on 22 July 1994, after which time political activity was banned by the military government: People's Progressive Party (PPP), Dawda K. JAWARA (in exile), secretary general; National Convention Party (NCP), Sheriff DIBBA (in exile); Gambian People's Party (GPP), Hassan Musa CAMARA; United Party (UP), leader NA; People's Democratic Organization of Independence and Socialism (PDOIS), leader NA; People's Democratic Party (PDP), Jabel SALLAH
three equal horizontal bands of red (top), blue with white edges, and green
The Gambia has no important mineral or other natural resources and has a limited agricultural base. About 75% of the population is engaged in crop production and livestock raising. Small-scale manufacturing activity features the processing of peanuts, fish, and hides. A sustained structural adjustment program, including a liberalized trade policy, had fostered a respectable 4% annual rate of growth in 1990-93. Reexport trade normally constitutes one-third of economic activity; however, border closures associated with Senegal's monetary crisis in late 1993 led to a halving of reexport trade, reducing government revenues in turn. The 50% devaluation of the CFA franc in January 1994 has made Senegalese goods more competitive and apparently prompted a relaxation of Senegalese controls, paving the way for a comeback in reexports. But, in response to the military's takeover in July 1994, cuts in foreign trade and a decline in tourism have undermined economic growth.
#
2
350
422
27
15
58
1.70
400000
agriculture 75.0%, industry, commerce, and services 18.9%, government 6.1%
peanuts, millet, sorghum, rice, corn, cassava (tapioca), palm kernels; cattle, sheep, goats; forest and fishing resources not fully exploited
?
35
peanuts and peanut products, fish, cotton lint, palm kernels
Japan 60%, Europe 29%, Africa 5%, US 1%, other 5% (1989)
209
foodstuffs, manufactures, raw materials, fuel, machinery and transport equipment
Europe 57%, Asia 25%, USSR and Eastern Europe 9%, US 6%, other 3% (1989)
386
ODA, $NA
?
1 dalasi (D) = 100 butut
9.55
1 July - 30 June
?
2386
764 km
1,622 km (1990 est.)
400
?
?
?
Banjul
?
?
?
?
1
1
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
11000
adequate network of microwave radio relay and open wire
microwave radio relay links to Senegal and Guinea-Bissau; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean)
3
2
0
180000
?
?
Army, Navy, National Police
#
267188
134611
?
14000000
3.80
@Georgia
0
0$Tbilissi$4172$4481$1500000$
#
Georgia has been beset by ethnic and civil strife since
independence. In late 1991, the country's first elected president,
Zviad GAMSAKHURDIA was ousted in an armed coup. In October 1993,
GAMSAKHURDIA, and his supporters sponsored a failed attempt to retake
power from the current government led by former Soviet Foreign
Minister Eduard SHEVARDNADZE. The Georgian government has also faced
armed separatist conflicts in the Abkhazia and South Ossetia regions.
A cease-fire went into effect in South Ossetia in June 1992 and a
joint Georgian-Ossetian-Russian peacekeeping force has been in place
since that time. Georgian forces were driven out of the Abkhaz region
in September 1993 after a yearlong war with Abkhaz separatists. Nearly
200,000 Georgian refugees have since fled Abkhazia, adding
substantially to the estimated 100,000 internally displaced persons
already in Georgia. Russian peacekeepers are deployed along the border
of Abkhazia and the rest of Georgia.
#
SAK
Southwestern Asia, bordering the Black Sea, between Turkey and Russia
69700
69700
1461
Armenia 164 km, Azerbaijan 322 km, Russia 723 km, Turkey 252 km
310
?
?
?
?
?
none
warm and pleasant; Mediterranean-like on Black Sea coast
largely mountainous with Great Caucasus Mountains in the north and Lesser Caucasus Mountains in the south; Kolkhida Lowland opens to the Black Sea in the west; Mtkvari River Basin in the east; good soils in river valley flood plains, foothills of Kolkhida Lowland
Black Sea 0 m
Mt'a Mqinvartsveri (Gora Kazbek) 5,048 m
forests, hydropower, manganese deposits, iron ore, copper, minor coal and oil deposits; coastal climate and soils allow for important tea and citrus growth
11
4
29
38
18
4660
air pollution, particularly in Rust'avi; heavy pollution of Mtkvari River and the Black Sea; inadequate supplies of potable water; soil pollution from toxic chemicals
NA
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Ship Pollution; signed, but not ratified - Desertification
5219810
22
595524
571207
66
1643506
1784286
12
229910
395377
-1.02
12.81
12.21
-10.82
1.05
1.04
0.92
0.58
0.90
22.50
68.09
63.43
72.98
1.69
Georgian(s)
Georgian
Georgian 70.1%, Armenian 8.1%, Russian 6.3%, Azeri 5.7%, Ossetian 3%, Abkhaz 1.8%, other 5%
#
Christian Orthodox 75% (Georgian Orthodox 65%, Russian Orthodox 10%), Muslim 11%, Armenian Apostolic 8%, unknown 6%
Armenian 7%, Azeri 6%, Georgian 71% (official), Russian 9%, other 7%
note: the administrative centers of the autonomous republics are included in parentheses; there are no oblasts - the rayons around T'bilisi are under direct republic jurisdiction
Independence: 9 April 1991 (from Soviet Union)
#
?
Independence Day, 26 May (1991)
adopted 17 October 1995
based on civil law system
18 years of age; universal
President Eduard Amvrosiyevich SHEVARDNADZE (previously elected Chairman of the Government Council 10 March 1992, Council has since been disbanded; previously elected Chairman of Parliament 11 October 1992); presidential election last held 5 November 1995 (next to be held NA April 2001); results - Eduard SHEVARDNADZE 74%; president's term to last five years
?
#
Cabinet of Ministers
#
unicameral
Georgian Parliament: elections last held 5 November 1995 (next to be held NA November 2000); results - CUG 24%, NDP 8%, All Georgia Revival Union 7%, all other parties received less than 5% each; seats - (235 total) number of seats by party NA
#
Supreme Court
Citizens Union of Georgia (CUG), Eduard SHEVARDNADZE, Zurab ZHVANIA, general secretary; National Democratic Party (NDP), Irina SARISHVILI-CHANTARIA; United Republican Party, umbrella organization for parties including the GPF and the Charter 1991 Party, Notar NATADZE, chairman; Georgian Popular Front (GPF), Nodar NATADZE, chairman; Charter 1991 Party, Tedo PAATASHVILI; Georgian Social Democratic Party (GSDP), Guram MUCHAIDZE, secretary general; All Georgia Union for Revival, Alsan ABASHIDZE; Christian Democratic Union (CDU), Irakli SHENGELAYA; Democratic Georgia Union (DGU), Avtandil MARGIANI; National Independence Party (NIP), Irakliy TSERETELI, chairman; Georgian Monarchists' Party (GMP), Temur ZHORZHOLIANI; Greens Party; Agrarian Party of Georgia (APG), Roin LIPARTELIANI; United Communist Party of Georgia (UCP), Panteleimon GIORGADZE, chairman
#
supporters of ousted President Zviad GAMSAKHURDIA (deceased 1 January 1994) remain a source of opposition; separatist elements in the breakaway region of Abkhazia
maroon field with small rectangle in upper hoist side corner; rectangle divided horizontally with black on top, white below
Georgia's economy has traditionally revolved around Black Sea tourism; cultivation of citrus fruits, tea, and grapes; mining of manganese and copper; and a small industrial sector producing wine, metals, machinery, chemicals, and textiles. The country imports the bulk of its energy needs, including natural gas and oil products. Its only sizable internal energy resource is hydropower. Since 1991 the economy has sustained severe damage from civil strife. Georgia has been suffering from acute energy shortages, as it is having problems paying for even minimal imports. Georgia is pinning its hopes for long-term recovery largely on reestablishing trade ties with Russia and on developing international transportation through the key Black Sea ports of P'ot'i and Bat'umi. Statistical estimates on Georgia are subject to a particularly wide margin of error, even compared with other FSU countries. The GDP estimate below probably does not reflect much of its grass roots economic activity. GDP is supplemented by considerable EU and US humanitarian aid.
#
-11
440
2297
70.40
10.20
19.40
2.20
2763000
industry and construction 31%, agriculture and forestry 25%, other 44% (1990)
5
?
?
steel, aircraft, machine tools, foundry equipment, electric locomotives, tower cranes, electric welding equipment, machinery for food preparation and meat packing, electric motors, process control equipment, trucks, tractors, textiles, shoes, chemicals, wood products, wine
-10
4.41
9100
1526
citrus, grapes, tea, vegetables, potatoes; small livestock sector
illicit cultivator of cannabis and opium poppy; mostly for domestic consumption; used as transshipment point for illicit drugs to Western Europe
140
citrus fruits, tea, wine, other agricultural products; diverse types of machinery; ferrous and nonferrous metals; textiles; chemicals; fuel re-exports
Russia, Turkey, Armenia, Azerbaijan
250
fuel, grain and other foods, machinery and parts, transport equipment
Russia, Azerbaijan, Turkey; note - EU and US send humanitarian food shipments
1200
ODA, $28 million (1993)
?
lari introduced September 1995 replacing the coupon
landline to CIS members and Turkey; satellite earth station - 1 Eutelsat; leased connections with other countries via the Moscow international gateway switch; international electronic mail and telex service available
?
?
?
?
3
?
Ground Forces, Navy, Air and Air Defense Forces, Republic Security Forces (internal and border troops)
#
1288291
1021632
40654
60000000
?
@Germany
0
0$Berlin$5253$1340$3410000$
1$Hamburg$5353$998$1626000$
1$Mⁿnchen$4815$1158$1207000$
1$K÷ln$5093$697$946000$
1$Frankfurt$5011$866$635000$
1$Essen$5147$698$624000$
1$Dortmund$5153$747$594000$
1$Dⁿsseldorf$5125$677$570000$
1$Stuttgart$4877$917$571000$
1$Bremen$5307$878$544000$
1$Duisburg$5144$669$532000$
1$Leipzig$5133$1233$530000$
1$Hannover$5239$972$506000$
1$Dresden$5103$1375$501000$
1$Nⁿrnberg$4943$1108$486000$
1$Bochum$5147$719$393000$
1$Wⁿppertal$5125$715$378000$
1$Bielefeld$5203$852$315000$
1$Mannheim$4947$848$306000$
1$Chemnitz$5083$1292$302000$
1$Magdeburg$5215$1161$290000$
1$Bonn$5072$710$283000$
1$Gelsenkirchen$5150$708$288000$
1$Karlsruhe$4905$839$267000$
1$Rostock$5410$1215$254000$
1$Wiesbaden$5011$828$254000$
1$Brunswick$5228$1047$254000$
1$Kiel$5433$1014$241000$
1$Aachen$5078$607$234000$
#
The German Empire was founded in 1871. The Weimarer Republic, set up after
the First World War (1914-1918), lasted from 1919 until 1933. The
National-Socialists under the leadership of Adolf Hitler then came to power,
creating the Third Reich and unchaining the Second World War (1939-1945).
The Federal Republic of Germany, also called West Germany, was formed in
1949 from the American, British, and French occupied zones of the former
Third Reich. The German Democratic Republic, or East Germany, was formed
from that part of the Third Reich occupied by Soviet Russia. The dismantling
of the Berlin Wall at the end of 1989 inaugurated a period of rapid
reconciliation between the two Germanies, which were reunited as the Federal
Republic on 3 October 1990. The Federal Republic is divided into 12 states
(LΣnder) and 3 city-states. Parliament consists of two legislative houses,
the 656-seat Bundestag or Federal Diet, and the 45-seat Bundesrat or Federal
Council, representing the states. The head of state, the President, is
elected jointly by the two houses for a period of 5 years. The first
all-German elections since 1935 were held in December 1990.
#
D
Central Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea and the North Sea, between the Netherlands and Poland, south of Denmark
356910
349520
3621
Austria 784 km, Belgium 167 km, Czech Republic 646 km, Denmark 68 km, France 451 km, Luxembourg 138 km, Netherlands 577 km, Poland 456 km, Switzerland 334 km
2389
?
200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
200
?
12
none
temperate and marine; cool, cloudy, wet winters and summers; occasional warm, tropical foehn wind; high relative humidity
lowlands in north, uplands in center, Bavarian Alps in south
emissions from coal-burning utilities and industries and lead emissions from vehicle exhausts (the result of continued use of leaded fuels) contribute to air pollution; acid rain, resulting from sulfur dioxide emissions, is damaging forests; heavy pollution in the Baltic Sea from raw sewage and industrial effluents from rivers in eastern Germany
NA
party to - Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Desertification, Tropical Timber 94
83536115
16.15
6928750
6563026
68.52
29339780
27902549
15.33
4658014
8143996
0.67
9.66
12.21
8.25
1.06
1.06
1.05
0.57
0.96
6
75.95
72.80
79.27
1.30
German(s)
German
German 95.1%, Turkish 2.3%, Italians 0.7%, Greeks 0.4%, Poles 0.4%, other 1.1% (made up largely of people fleeing the war in the former Yugoslavia)
#
Protestant 45%, Roman Catholic 37%, unaffiliated or other 18%
Independence: 18 January 1871 (German Empire unification); divided into four zones of occupation (UK, US, USSR, and later, France) in 1945 following World War II; Federal Republic of Germany (FRG or West Germany) proclaimed 23 May 1949 and included the former UK, US, and French zones; German Democratic Republic (GDR or East Germany) proclaimed 7 October 1949 and included the former USSR zone; unification of West Germany and East Germany took place 3 October 1990; all four power rights formally relinquished 15 March 1991
#
?
German Unity Day (Day of Unity), 3 October (1990)
23 May 1949, known as Basic Law; became constitution of the united German people 3 October 1990
civil law system with indigenous concepts; judicial review of legislative acts in the Federal Constitutional Court; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
18 years of age; universal
President Roman HERZOG (since 1 July 1994) was elected by the Federal Convention including members of the Bundestag and an equal number of members elected by the Land Parliaments
Chancellor Dr. Helmut KOHL (since 4 October 1982) was elected by an absolute majority of the Bundestag
#
Cabinet was appointed by the president upon the proposal of the chancellor
#
bicameral chamber (no official name for the two chambers as a whole)
Federal Assembly (Bundestag): election last held 16 October 1994 (next to be held by NA 1998); results - CDU 34.2%, SPD 36.4%, Alliance 90/Greens 7.3%, CSU 7.3%, FDP 6.9%, PDS 4.4%, Republicans 1.9%; seats - (usually 656 total, but 672 for the 1994 term) CDU 244, SPD 252, Alliance 90/Greens 49, CSU 50, FDP 47, PDS 30; elected by direct popular vote under a system combining direct and proportional representation; a party must win 5% of the national vote or three direct mandates to gain representation
Federal Council (Bundesrat): State governments are directly represented by votes; each has 3 to 6 votes depending on size and are required to vote as a block; current composition: votes - (68 total) SPD-led states 41, CDU-led states 27
#
Federal Constitutional Court (Bundesverfassungsgericht), half the judges are elected by the Bundestag and half by the Bundesrat
Christian Democratic Union (CDU), Helmut KOHL, chairman; Christian Social Union (CSU), Theo WAIGEL, chairman; Free Democratic Party (FDP), Wolfgang GERHARDT, chairman; Social Democratic Party (SPD), Oskar LA FONTAINE, chairman; Alliance '90/Greens, Krista SAGER, Juergen TRITTIN, cochairpersons; Party of Democratic Socialism (PDS), Lothar BISKY, chairman; Republikaner, Rolf SCHLIERER, chairman; National Democratic Party (NPD), Ellen-Doris SCHERER; Communist Party (DKP), Rolf PRIEMER and Heinz STEHR, cochairpersons
three equal horizontal bands of black (top), red, and yellow
Germany, the world's third-most powerful economy, faces its own unique problem of bringing its eastern area up to scratch after 45 years of communist rule. Despite substantial progress toward economic integration, the eastern states will continue to rely on subsidies from the federal government into the next century. Assistance to the east of about $100 billion annually has helped the region average nearly 8% annual economic growth since 1991, even though the overall German economy has averaged less than 2% growth. The economic recovery in the east has been led by the construction industries, with growth increasingly supported by the service sectors and light manufacturing industries. Western Germany, which accounts for 90% of overall German GDP and has three times the per capita income of eastern Germany, is perennially the first- or second-largest exporter, after the US, in the world. Nonetheless, business and political leaders have in recent years become increasingly concerned about Germany's apparent decline in attractiveness as a business location. They cite the increasing preference of German companies to locate manufacturing facilities - long the strength of the postwar economy - to foreign countries, including the US, rather than in Germany, so they can be closer to their markets and avoid Germany's high production costs. The conditions under which European economic integration - especially movement toward a single European currency - will proceed will be another key issue facing Germany in the next few years.
#
1.80
27620
2307267
1
34.20
64.80
2
36750000
industry 41%, agriculture 6%, other 53% (1987)
10.20
690000
780000
western: among world's largest and technologically advanced producers of iron, steel, coal, cement, chemicals, machinery, vehicles, machine tools, electronics, food and beverages. eastern: metal fabrication, chemicals, brown coal, shipbuilding, machine building, food and beverages, textiles, petroleum refining
source of precursor chemicals for South American cocaine processors; transshipment point for Southwest Asian heroin and Latin American cocaine for West European markets
437000
manufactures 89.3% (including machines and machine tools, chemicals, motor vehicles, iron and steel products), agricultural products 5.5%, raw materials 2.7%, fuels 1.3% (1993)
EC 47.9% (France 11.7%, Netherlands 7.4%, Italy 7.5%, UK 7.7%, Belgium-Luxembourg 6.6%), EFTA 15.5%, US 7.7%, Eastern Europe 5.2%, OPEC 3.0% (1993)
the region which was formerly West Germany is served by an extensive system of automatic telephone exchanges connected by modern networks of fiber-optic cable, coaxial cable, microwave radio relay, and a domestic satellite system; cellular telephone service is widely available and includes roaming service to many foreign countries; since the reunification of Germany, the telephone system of the eastern region has been upgraded and enjoys many of the advantages of the national system
satellite earth stations - 14 Intelsat (12 Atlantic Ocean and 2 Indian Ocean), 1 Eutelsat, 1 Inmarsat (Atlantic Ocean region), 2 Intersputnik (1 Atlantic Ocean region and 1 Indian Ocean region); 6 submarine cable connections; 2 HF radiotelephone communication centers; tropospheric scatter links
?
?
?
70000000
246
44800000
Army, Navy (includes Naval Air Arm), Air Force, Border Police, Coast Guard
#
21540919
18537347
449292
42800000000
1.50
@Ghana
0
0$Accra$558$-010$1500000$
1$Kumasi$675$-158$500000$
#
Having found gold here in 1471, the Portuguese named this part of Africa the
Gold Coast. The name Ghana is that of an African empire along the Niger
River, far to the north-west of present-day Ghana, between 400 and 1240 AD.
After having been under British rule for 113 years, Ghana gained
independence and adopted its new name on March 6 1957. In 1960 it attained
republic status within the Commonwealth. Independent Ghana became a symbol
of freedom for black Africa. In the 1960's and 70's, however, a series of
repressive civil and military governments led to economic stagnation. Since
the coup of 1981, executive and legislative powers lie with the Provisional
National Defence Council (PNDC), which rules by decree.
There are 10 regions in Ghana, divided into 64 smaller administrative units.
#
GH
Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Cote d'Ivoire and Togo
238540
230020
2093
Burkina Faso 548 km, Cote d'Ivoire 668 km, Togo 877 km
539
24
200 nm
200
?
12
none
tropical; warm and comparatively dry along southeast coast; hot and humid in southwest; hot and dry in north
mostly low plains with dissected plateau in south-central area
recent drought in north severely affecting agricultural activities; deforestation; overgrazing; soil erosion; poaching and habitat destruction threatens wildlife populations; water pollution; inadequate supplies of potable water
dry, dusty, harmattan winds occur from January to March; droughts
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Tropical Timber 94, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Marine Life Conservation
17698271
43
3856673
3819946
54
4658142
4814060
3
262159
287291
2.29
35
11.15
-0.94
1.03
1.01
0.97
0.91
0.98
80.30
56.17
54.18
58.22
4.59
Ghanaian(s)
Ghanaian
black African 99.8% (major tribes - Akan 44%, Moshi-Dagomba 16%, Ewe 13%, Ga 8%), European and other 0.2%
#
indigenous beliefs 38%, Muslim 30%, Christian 24%, other 8%
English (official), African languages (including Akan, Moshi-Dagomba, Ewe, and Ga)
based on English common law and customary law; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
18 years of age; universal
President Jerry John RAWLINGS (since 3 November 1992); elected for a four-year term by direct universal suffrage; the president can appoint a vice president; election last held 3 November 1992 (next to be held NA December 1996)
?
#
Cabinet; president nominates members subject to approval by the Parliament
#
unicameral
Parliament: elections last held 29 December 1992 (next to be held NA December 1996); results - opposition boycotted the election, the National Democratic Congress won 198 of the total 200 seats and 2 seats were won by independents; because of interim bye-elections, the National Democratic Congress and its remaining coalition partner, Every Ghanian Living Everywhere (EGLE), now control 189 seats; former coalition partner, NCP, has 8 seats; independents hold 3
#
Supreme Court
National Democratic Congress (NDC), Jerry John RAWLINGS; New Patriotic Party (NPP), Peter Ala ADJETY; People's Heritage Party (PHP), Alex ERSKINE; National Convention Party (NCP), Kow ARKAAH; Every Ghanian Living Everywhere (EGLE), Ashang OKINE; Peoples Convention Party (PCP), B.K. NKETSIA; Peoples National Convention (PNC), Alhaji Asuma BANDA
three equal horizontal bands of red (top), yellow, and green with a large black five-pointed star centered in the yellow band; uses the popular pan-African colors of Ethiopia; similar to the flag of Bolivia, which has a coat of arms centered in the yellow band
Well endowed with natural resources, Ghana has twice the per capita output of the poorer countries in West Africa. Heavily reliant on international assistance, Ghana has made steady progress in liberalizing its economy since 1983. Overall growth continued at a rate of approximately 5% in 1995, due largely to increased gold, timber, and cocoa production - major sources of foreign exchange. The economy, however, continues to revolve around subsistence agriculture, which accounts for almost half of GDP and employs 55% of the work force, mainly small landholders. Public sector wage increases, regional peacekeeping commitments, and the containment of internal unrest in the underdeveloped north have placed substantial demands on the government's budget and have led to inflationary deficit financing, depreciation of the cedi, and rising public discontent with Ghana's austerity program.
#
5
390
6902
47
16
37
69
3700000
agriculture and fishing 54.7%, industry 18.7%, sales and clerical 15.2%, professional 3.7%, services, transportation, and communications 7.7%
petroleum, consumer goods, foods, intermediate goods, capital equipment
UK, US, Germany, Japan, Netherlands (1995)
4600
ODA, $472 million (1993)
?
1 new cedi (C) = 100 pesewas
1246.11
calendar year
953
953 km 1.067-m gauge; 32 km double track
38145
7,476 km (including 21 km of expressways)
30,669 km (1990 est.)
168
?
?
?
Takoradi, Tema
3
27427
35894
cargo 2, refrigerated cargo 1 (1995 est.)
12
?
3
1
2
2
?
?
2
2
?
?
70000
primarily microwave radio relay
satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean)
4
1
0
?
4
250000
Army, Navy, Air Force, Police Force, Palace Guard, Civil Defense
#
4135538
2303423
176332
30000000
0.80
@Gibraltar
0
#
The Rock of Gibraltar, a limestone promontory at the tip of southern Spain.
Settled by Moors in 711; taken by Spain in 1462; ceded to Britain in 1713; a
British crown colony (1830-1969); still politically associated with Britain
#
[GB]
Southwestern Europe, bordering the Strait of Gibraltar, which links the Mediterranean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, on the southern coast of Spain
6.50
6.50
1.20
Spain 1.2 km
12
?
?
?
?
3
source of friction between Spain and the UK
Mediterranean with mild winters and warm summers
a narrow coastal lowland borders the Rock of Gibraltar
Mediterranean Sea 0 m
Rock of Gibraltar 426 m
NEGL
0
0
0
0
100
?
limited natural freshwater resources, so large concrete or natural rock water catchments collect rain water
NA
NA
28765
20
3109
2728
66
10668
8292
14
1582
2386
0.54
13.94
8.73
0.21
1.04
1.14
1.29
0.66
1.15
6.90
77.83
74.50
81.31
2.26
Gibraltarian(s)
Gibraltar
Italian, English, Maltese, Portuguese, Spanish
#
Roman Catholic 74%, Protestant 11% (Church of England 8%, other 3%), Muslim 8%, Jewish 2%, none or other 5% (1981)
English (used in schools and for official purposes), Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, Russian
?
?
?
none
Gibraltar
?
?
dependent territory of the UK
Gibraltar
none (dependent territory of the UK)
Independence: none (dependent territory of the UK)
#
?
Commonwealth Day (second Monday of March)
30 May 1969
English law
18 years of age; universal, plus other UK subjects resident six months or more
Queen ELIZABETH II (of the United Kingdom since 6 February 1952), a hereditary monarch, is represented by Governor and Commander in Chief Field Marshal Sir John CHAPPLE (since NA March 1993)
Chief Minister Joe BOSSANO (since 25 March 1988) was appointed by the governor
Gibraltar Council: advises the governor
#
Council of Ministers was appointed from the elected members of the House of Assembly by the governor in consultation with the chief minister
#
unicameral
House of Assembly: elections last held 16 January 1992 (next to be held NA January 1996); results - SL 73.3%, SD 20.2%, NP 4.7%, independents 1.8%; seats - (18 total, 15 elected) SL 8, SD 7
#
Supreme Court; Court of Appeal
Gibraltar Socialist Labor Party (SL), Joe BOSSANO; Gibraltar Labor Party/Association for the Advancement of Civil Rights (GCL/AACR), leader Adolfo CANEPA; Gibraltar Social Democrats (SD), Peter CARUANA; Gibraltar National Party (NP), Joe GARCIA
#
Housewives Association; Chamber of Commerce; Gibraltar Representatives Organization
#
Interpol (subbureau)
two horizontal bands of white (top, double width) and red with a three-towered red castle in the center of the white band; hanging from the castle gate is a gold key centered in the red band
Gibraltar benefits from an extensive shipping trade and offshore banking. The British military presence has been sharply reduced and now contributes about 11% to the local economy. The financial sector accounts for 15% of GDP; tourism, shipping services fees, and duties on consumer goods also generate revenue. Because more than 70% of the economy is in the public sector, changes in government spending have a major impact on the level of employment.
#
?
15000
431
?
?
?
?
14800
?
?
116
124
tourism, banking and finance, construction, commerce; support to large UK naval and air bases; tobacco, mineral waters, beer, canned fish
?
0.05
90
2539
none
?
57
(principally reexports) petroleum 51%, manufactured goods 41%, other 8%
radiotelephone; microwave radio relay; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean)
1
6
0
?
4
?
British Army, Royal Navy, Royal Air Force
Defense note: defense is the responsibility of the UK
#
?
?
?
?
?
@Glorioso Islands
France
#
#
Southern Africa, group of islands in the Indian Ocean, northwest of Madagascar
5
5
?
?
35.20
?
?
200
?
12
claimed by Madagascar
tropical
NA
Indian Ocean 0 m
unnamed location 12 m
guano, coconuts
0
0
0
0
100
0
NA
periodic cyclones
NA
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
none
Glorioso Islands
none
Iles Glorieuses
French possession administered by Commissioner of the Republic, resident in Reunion
none; administered by France from Reunion
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
#
?
#
?
?
#
?
#
?
the flag of France is used
no economic activity
Transportation
#
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
1
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
none; offshore anchorage only
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
1
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
@Greece
0
0$Athina$3797$2377$3096000$
1$Thessalonφki$4064$2300$977000$
1$Irßklion$3533$2514$263000$
1$Lßrissa$3964$2242$269000$
#
The oldest inhabitants of Greece lived in the Stone Age. The first important
centre of culture developed on Crete between 1700 and 1400 BC. By the 5th
century BC, Greece had reached the height of its glory and power. It fell
under Roman rule in the 2nd century BC. In the 4th century AD, it became
part of the Byzantine empire. With the fall of Constantinople to the Turks,
Greece became part of the Ottoman Empire in 1453. Greece won its war of
independence with Turkey (1821-29), and declared itself a kingdom in 1832.
In 1924 it became a republic, but the monarchy was restored in 1935. George
II, King of the Hellenes, was recalled to the throne following a plebiscite
after World War II. The monarchy remained until 21 April 1967, when Col.
George Papadopoulos staged a military takeover. Greece was proclaimed a
republic after a referendum in December 1977. It became the 10th member of
the European Community on 1 January 1981. Head of state is the president,
elected for a term of 5 years by parliament. He names the prime-minister and
the cabinet. The parliament consists of a single house, the Greek Chamber of
Deputies, which has no fewer than 200 and no more than 300 seats. Members
are chosen by general election every four years.
Greece is divided into 51 prefectures (Nomoi).
#
GR
Southern Europe, bordering the Aegean Sea, Ionian Sea, and the Mediterranean Sea, between Albania and Turkey
131940
130800
1210
Albania 282 km, Bulgaria 494 km, Turkey 206 km, The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia 228 km
13676
?
200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
?
?
6
complex maritime, air, and territorial disputes with Turkey in Aegean Sea; Cyprus question; dispute with The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia over name; border demarcation with Albania, the treatment of Albania's ethnic Greek minority, and migrant Albanian workers in Greece remain unresolved issues
temperate; mild, wet winters; hot, dry summers
mostly mountains with ranges extending into sea as peninsulas or chains of islands
Mediterranean Sea 0 m
Mount Olympus 2,917 m
bauxite, lignite, magnesite, petroleum, marble
23
8
40
20
9
11900
air pollution; water pollution
severe earthquakes
party to - Air Pollution, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Desertification
10538594
16
899029
837308
68
3571918
3542556
16
736818
950965
0.42
9.78
9.53
3.98
1.07
1.07
1.01
0.78
0.98
7.40
78.10
75.60
80.78
1.37
Greek(s)
Greek
Greek 98%, other 2%
note: the Greek Government states there are no ethnic divisions in Greece
#
Greek Orthodox 98%, Muslim 1.3%, other 0.7%
Greek (official), English, French
95
98
93
Hellenic Republic
Greece
Elliniki Dhimokratia
Ellas
parliamentary republic; monarchy rejected by referendum 8 December 1974
Independence Day, 25 March (1821) (proclamation of the war of independence)
11 June 1975
based on codified Roman law; judiciary divided into civil, criminal, and administrative courts
18 years of age; universal and compulsory
President Konstandinos (Kostis) STEPHANOPOULOS (since 10 March 1995) was elected for a five-year term by Parliament; election last held 10 March 1995 (next to be held by NA 2000); results - Konstandinos STEPHANOPOULOS was elected by Parliament
Prime Minister Konstandinos SIMITIS (since 19 January 1996) was appointed by the president
#
Cabinet was appointed by the president on recommendation of the prime minister
#
unicameral
Chamber of Deputies (Vouli ton Ellinon): elections last held 10 October 1993 (next to be held by NA October 1997); results - PASOK 46.88%, ND 39.30%, Political Spring 4.87%, KKE 4.54%, and Progressive Left (replaced by Coalition of the Left and Progress) 2.94%; seats - (300 total) PASOK 170, ND 111, Political Spring 10, KKE 9; note - seating as of January 1996: PASOK 170, ND 109, Political Spring 11, KKE 9, independent 1
#
Supreme Judicial Court, judges appointed for life by the president after consultation with a judicial council; Special Supreme Tribunal, judges appointed for life by the president after consultation with a judicial council
New Democracy (ND; conservative), Miltiades EVERT; Panhellenic Socialist Movement (PASOK), Andreas PAPANDREOU (special congress scheduled for July 1996); Communist Party (KKE), Aleka PAPARIGA; Political Spring, Andonios SAMARAS; Coalition of the Left and Progress (Synaspismos), Nikolaos KONSTANDOPOULOS; Democratic Social Movement (DIKKI), Dhimitrios TSOVOLAS; Rainbow Coalition, Pavlos VOSKOPOULOS
nine equal horizontal stripes of blue alternating with white; there is a blue square in the upper hoist-side corner bearing a white cross; the cross symbolizes Greek Orthodoxy, the established religion of the country
Greece has a mixed capitalist economy. The basic entrepreneurial system underwent extensive socialist change in 1981-89, which enlarged the public sector from 55% of GDP in 1981 to about 70% in 1989. Tourism is a major source of foreign exchange, and agriculture is self-sufficient, except for meat, dairy products, and animal feedstuffs. Despite a moderate recovery in industrial output over the last year, the Greek economy remains weak, with real GDP growth of 1.7%; the country's huge public sector and burgeoning budget deficit are contributing to a public debt of 120% of GDP. The government's hard drachma policy and public sector wage restraint are largely responsible for the downward trend in inflation, which is at the lowest level in 20 years. Investment is likely to be the primary engine for economic growth in 1996. Athens continues to rely heavily on EU aid, which currently amounts to about 4% of GDP. New Prime Minister SIMITIS's reputation as the architect of Athens' mid-1980s austerity program suggests that he will pursue prudent economic policies that will bring Greece closer to meeting the EU criteria for participating in economic and monetary union. SIMITIS faces strong opposition to further privatization and further austerity.
#
1.70
8180
86206
11.80
22.20
66
8.10
4077000
services 52%, agriculture 23%, industry 25% (1994)
9.60
43200
47000
tourism; food and tobacco processing, textiles; chemicals, metal products; mining, petroleum
illicit producer of cannabis and limited opium; mostly for domestic consumption; serves as a gateway to Europe for traffickers smuggling cannabis and heroin from the Middle East and Southwest Asia to the West and precursor chemicals to the East; transshipment point for Southwest Asian heroin transiting the Balkan route
8800
manufactured goods 53%, foodstuffs 34%, fuels 5%
EU 55% (Germany 21%, Italy 14%, France 5.4%, UK 6%), US 5% (1994)
21900.00
manufactured goods 72%, foodstuffs 15%, fuels 10%
EU 70% (Germany 17%, Italy 17%, France 8%, UK 6%, Japan 3%) (1994)
31200
ODA, $NA
?
1 drachma (Dr) = 100 lepta
240.21
calendar year
2474
1,565 km 1.435-m gauge (36 km electrified; 100 km double track)
887 km 1.000-m gauge; 22 km 0.750-m gauge (a rack type railway for steep grades)
Independence: none (part of the Danish realm; self-governing overseas administrative division)
#
?
Birthday of the Queen, 16 April (1940)
5 June 1953 (Danish constitution)
Danish
18 years of age; universal
Queen MARGRETHE II (of Denmark since 14 January 1972), a constitutional monarch, is represented by High Commissioner Steen SPORE (since NA 1993)
Prime Minister Lars Emil JOHANSEN (since 15 March 1991) was elected by the Landsting
#
Landsstyre is formed from the Landsting on basis of strength of parties
#
unicameral
Parliament (Landsting): election last held on 4 March 1995 (next to be held NA 5 March 1999); results - Siumut 38.5%, Inuit Ataqatigiit 20.3%, Atassut Party 29.7%; seats - (31 total) Siumut 12, Atassut Party 10, Inuit Ataqatigiit 6, conservative splinter grouping 2, independent 1
Danish Folketing: election last held on 21 September 1994 (next to be held by NA September 1998); Greenland elects two representatives to the Folketing; results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (2 total) Liberals 1, Social Democrats 1; note - Greenlandic representatives are affiliated with Danish political parties
#
High Court (Landsret)
two-party ruling coalition; Siumut (Forward Party, a moderate socialist party that advocates more distinct Greenlandic identity and greater autonomy from Denmark), Lars Emil JOHANSEN, chairman; Inuit Ataqatigiit (IA) (Eskimo Brotherhood, a Marxist-Leninist party that favors complete independence from Denmark rather than home rule), Josef MOTZFELDT; Atassut Party (Solidarity, a more conservative party that favors continuing close relations with Denmark), Daniel SKIFTE; Akulliit Party, Bjarne KREUTZMANN; Issituup (Polar Party), Nicolai HEINRICH
Diplomatic representation in US: none (self-governing overseas administrative division of Denmark)
US diplomatic representation: none (self-governing overseas administrative division of Denmark)
#
?
#
?
two equal horizontal bands of white (top) and red with a large disk slightly to the hoist side of center - the top half of the disk is red, the bottom half is white
Greenland's economic situation at present is difficult. Unemployment is increasing, and prospects for economic growth in the immediate future are dim. Following the closing of the Black Angel lead and zinc mine in 1989, Greenland became almost completely dependent on fishing and fish processing, the sector accounting for 95% of exports. Prospects for fisheries are not bright, as the important shrimp catches will at best stabilize and cod catches have dropped. Resumption of mining and hydrocarbon activities is not around the corner, thus leaving only tourism with some potential for the near future. The public sector, i.e., the central government and its commercial entities and the municipalities, plays a dominant role in Greenland, accounting for about two-thirds of total employment. About half the government's revenues come from grants from the Danish Government, an important supplement of GDP.
#
?
17000
989
?
?
?
1.30
22800
?
6.60
667
635
fish processing (mainly shrimp), lead, zinc, handicrafts, small shipyards
?
0.08
210
3361
forage crops, small garden vegetables; sheep; 1988 fish catch of 133,500 metric tons
?
330.50
fish and fish products 95%
Denmark 79%, Benelux 9%, Germany 5%
369.60
manufactured goods 28%, machinery and transport equipment 24%, food and live animals 12.4%, petroleum products 12%
Denmark 65%, Norway 8.8%, US 4.6%, Germany 3.8%, Japan 3.8%, Sweden 2.4%
Grenada was first sighted by Columbus in 1498. The French were the first
Europeans to settle, in 1650, when they purchased the island from the Carib
indians. It was alternately held by the British and the French until 1783,
when it was allocated to the British under the treaty of Versailles. Grenada
became an associated Commonwealth state with internal self-government in
March 1967. Full independence was gained on 7 February 1974. It is the
smallest independent nation in the western hemisphere. A military coup in
October 1983 led to a US invasion of the island on the 25th of that month.
The US forces left in June 1985. Elections in 1984 were a victory for
Herbert Blaize. The head of state is the British monarch, represented by a
governor-general. Legislative power lies with the two houses of the
parliament: the Senate, with 13 seats, and the House of Representatives,
with 15.
#
WG
Caribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, north of Trinidad and Tobago
340
340
?
?
121
?
?
200
?
12
none
tropical; tempered by northeast trade winds
volcanic in origin with central mountains
Caribbean Sea 0 m
Mount Saint Catherine 840 m
timber, tropical fruit, deepwater harbors
15
26
3
9
47
?
NA
lies on edge of hurricane belt; hurricane season lasts from June to November
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection, Whaling
94961
43
20975
20246
52
26089
23068
5
2112
2471
0.55
29.13
5.74
-17.87
1.02
1.04
1.13
0.86
1.07
11.90
70.89
68.39
73.44
3.78
Grenadian(s)
Grenadian
black African
#
Roman Catholic, Anglican, other Protestant sects
English (official), French patois
98
98
98
none
Grenada
?
?
parliamentary democracy
Saint George's
6 parishes and 1 dependency*; Carriacou and Petit Martinique*, Saint Andrew, Saint David, Saint George, Saint John, Saint Mark, Saint Patrick
Independence: 7 February 1974 (from UK)
#
?
Independence Day, 7 February (1974)
19 December 1973
based on English common law
18 years of age; universal
Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952), a hereditary monarch, is represented by Governor General Reginald Oswald PALMER (since 6 August 1992)
Prime Minister Keith MITCHELL (since 22 June 1995) was appointed from members of the House of Assembly by the governor general
#
Cabinet was appointed by the governor general on advice of the prime minister
#
bicameral Parliament
Senate: consists of a 13-member body, 10 appointed by the government and three by the leader of the opposition
House of Representatives: elections last held on 20 June 1995 (next to be held by NA October 2000); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (15 total) NDC 5, GULP 2, NNP 8
#
West Indies Associate States Supreme Court
National Democratic Congress (NDC), George BRIZAN; Grenada United Labor Party (GULP), Sir Eric GAIRY; The National Party (TNP), Ben JONES; New National Party (NNP), Keith MITCHELL; Maurice Bishop Patriotic Movement (MBPM), Terrence MARRYSHOW; New Democratic Party (NDP), James MITCHELL; Unity Labor Party (ULP), Vincent BEACHE
a rectangle divided diagonally into yellow triangles (top and bottom) and green triangles (hoist side and outer side) with a red border around the flag; there are seven yellow five-pointed stars with three centered in the top red border, three centered in the bottom red border, and one on a red disk superimposed at the center of the flag; there is also a symbolic nutmeg pod on the hoist-side triangle (Grenada is the world's second-largest producer of nutmeg, after Indonesia); the seven stars represent the seven administrative divisions
The economy is essentially agricultural and centers on the traditional production of spices and tropical plants. Agriculture accounts for about 10% of GDP and 80% of exports and employs 24% of the labor force. Tourism is the leading foreign exchange earner, followed by agricultural exports. Manufacturing remains relatively undeveloped, but is growing due to a favorable private investment climate since 1983. The economy achieved an impressive average annual growth rate of 5.5% in 1986-91 but has slowed since 1992. The new MITCHELL government has moved forward with a plan to eliminate personal income tax in the hope of spurring domestic consumption.
#
3
2500
237
10.20
40.30
49.50
3
36000
services 31%, agriculture 24%, construction 8%, manufacturing 5%, other 32% (1985)
14
75.70
126.70
food and beverages, textiles, light assembly operations, tourism, construction
US 31.2%, Caricom 23.6%, UK 13.8%, Japan 7.1% (1991)
89.10
ODA, $NA
?
1 EC dollar (EC$) = 100 cents
2.70
calendar year
?
994
597 km
397 km (1988 est.)
?
?
?
?
Grenville, Saint George's
?
?
?
?
3
?
1
1
?
1
?
?
?
?
?
?
5650
interisland VHF and UHF radiotelephone links
new SHF radiotelephone links to Trinidad and Tobago and Saint Vincent; VHF and UHF radio links to Trinidad
1
0
0
80000
1
30000
Royal Grenada Police Force, Coast Guard
#
?
?
?
?
?
@Guadeloupe
France
0$Basse-Terre$1600$-6172$30000$
#
In the East Caribbean, in the Leeward Islands, formed by the islands of
Basse Terre and Grande Terre and their five dependencies.
#
[F]
Caribbean, islands in the eastern Caribbean Sea, southeast of Puerto Rico
1780
1706
?
?
306
?
?
200
?
12
none
subtropical tempered by trade winds; moderately high humidity
Basse-Terre is volcanic in origin with interior mountains; Grand-Terre is low limestone formation; most of the seven other islands are volcanic in origin
Caribbean Sea 0 m
Soufriere 1,467 m
cultivable land, beaches and climate that foster tourism
18
5
13
40
24
30
NA
hurricanes (June to October); La Soufriere is an active volcano
NA
407768
26
53118
51219
66
132846
136147
8
14617
19821
1.20
17.78
5.59
-0.16
1.05
1.04
0.98
0.74
0.97
8.30
77.40
74.37
80.58
1.92
Guadeloupian(s)
Guadeloupe
black or mulatto 90%, white 5%, East Indian, Lebanese, Chinese less than 5%
#
Roman Catholic 95%, Hindu and pagan African 4%, Protestant sects 1%
French (official) 99%, Creole patois
90
90
90
Department of Guadeloupe
Guadeloupe
Departement de la Guadeloupe
Guadeloupe
overseas department of France
Basse-Terre
none (overseas department of France)
Independence: none (overseas department of France)
#
?
National Day, Taking of the Bastille, 14 July (1789)
28 September 1958 (French Constitution)
French legal system
18 years of age; universal
President (of France) Jacques CHIRAC (since 17 May 1995), represented by Prefect Michel DIEFENBACHER (since NA March 1995), who was appointed by the French Ministry of Interior
President of the General Council Dominique LARIFLA (since NA); President of the Regional Council Lucette MICHAUX-CHEVRY (since 22 March 1992)
#
?
#
unicameral General Council and unicameral Regional Council
General Council: elections last held 22 March 1992 (next to be held by NA 1996); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (43 total) FRUI.G 13, RPR/DUD 13, PPDG 8, FGPS 3, PCG 3, UPLG 1, PSG 1, independent 1
Regional Council: elections last held 31 January 1994 (next to be held by 16 March 1998); results - RPR/FGPS-dissadents 48.30%, FGPS 17.09%, FRUI.G 7.44%, PPDG 8.90%, UPLG 7.75% PCG 6.05%; seats - (41 total) RPR/FGPS-dissadents 22, FGPS/FRUI.G 9, PPDG 5, PCG 3, UPLG 2
French Senate: elections last held in September 1995 (next to be held NA September 2004); Guadeloupe elects two representatives; results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (2 total) PPDG 1, FGPS 1
French National Assembly: elections last held on 21 and 28 March 1993 (next to be held NA March 1998); Guadeloupe elects four representatives; results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (4 total) FGPS 1, RPR 1, PPDG 1, independent 1
#
Court of Appeal (Cour d'Appel) with jurisdiction over Guadeloupe, French Guiana, and Martinique
Rally for the Republic (RPR), Daniel BEAUBRUN; Communist Party of Guadeloupe (PCG), Christian Medard CELESTE; Socialist Party (FGPS), Georges LOUISOR; Popular Union for the Liberation of Guadeloupe (UPLG), Claude MAKOUKE; FGPS Dissidents (FRUI.G), Dominique LARIFLA; Union for French Democracy (UDF), Marcel ESDRAS; Progressive Democratic Party (PPDG), Henri BANGOU
#
Movement for Independent Guadeloupe (MPGI); General Union of Guadeloupe Workers (UGTG); General Federation of Guadeloupe Workers (CGT-G); Christian Movement for the Liberation of Guadeloupe (KLPG)
#
FZ, WCL, WFTU
three horizontal bands, a narrow green band (top), a wide red band, and a narrow green band; the green bands are separated from the red band by two narrow white stripes; a five-pointed gold star is centered in the red band toward the hoist side; the flag of France is used for official occasions
The economy depends on agriculture, tourism, light industry, and services. It is also dependent upon France for large subsidies and imports. Tourism is a key industry, with most tourists from the US. In addition, an increasingly large number of cruise ships visit the islands. The traditionally important sugarcane crop is slowly being replaced by other crops, such as bananas (which now supply about 50% of export earnings), eggplant, and flowers. Other vegetables and root crops are cultivated for local consumption, although Guadeloupe is still dependent on imported food, which comes mainly from France. Light industry consists mostly of sugar and rum production. Most manufactured goods and fuel are imported. Unemployment is especially high among the young.
#
?
8600
3507
6
9
85
3.70
129700
agriculture 15%, industry 20%, services 65% (1993)
31.30
395
407
construction, cement, rum, sugar, tourism
?
0.32
650
1421
bananas, sugarcane, tropical fruits and vegetables; cattle, pigs, goats
?
130
bananas, sugar, rum
France 70%, Martinique 17% (1991)
1400
foodstuffs, fuels, vehicles, clothing and other consumer goods, construction materials
France 60%, EC, US, Japan (1991)
?
ODA, $NA
?
1 French franc (F) = 100 centimes
5.01
calendar year
?
2082
1,742 km
340 km (1985 est.)
?
?
?
?
Basse-Terre, Gustavia, Marigot, Pointe-a-Pitre
?
?
?
?
9
1
?
?
2
6
?
?
?
?
?
?
64916
NA
satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean); microwave radio relay to Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, and Martinique
2
8
0
100000
9
150000
French Forces, Gendarmerie
Defense note: defense is the responsibility of France
#
?
?
?
?
?
@Guam
United States
#
Guam is the largest of the Mariana Islands. Originally named the Ladrones
(thieves) in 1521 by Magellan, they were colonized in 1668 by Spanish
missionaries. They renamed the the Mariana Islands in honour of Maria Anna,
queen of Spain. Spain ceded Guam to the US, but sold the other islands to
Germany. Guam is a self-governing organized unincorporated US territory.
There is a governor and a 21-member legislature, elected every two years.
The residents are American citizens, but do not vote in presidential
elections.
#
[USA]
Oceania, island in the North Pacific Ocean, about three-quarters of the way from Hawaii to the Philippines
541.30
541.30
?
?
125.50
?
?
200
?
12
none
tropical marine; generally warm and humid, moderated by northeast trade winds; dry season from January to June, rainy season from July to December; little seasonal temperature variation
volcanic origin, surrounded by coral reefs; relatively flat coralline limestone plateau (source of most fresh water) with steep coastal cliffs and narrow coastal plains in north, low-rising hills in center, mountains in south
Pacific Ocean 0 m
Mount Lamlam 406 m
fishing (largely undeveloped), tourism (especially from Japan)
11
11
15
18
45
?
NA
frequent squalls during rainy season; relatively rare, but potentially very destructive typhoons (especially in August)
NA
156974
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
2.34
24.24
3.86
3
?
?
?
?
?
15.17
74.29
72.42
76.13
2.25
Guamanian(s)
Guamanian
Chamorro 47%, Filipino 25%, white 10%, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and other 18%
#
Roman Catholic 98%, other 2%
English, Chamorro, Japanese
99
99
99
Territory of Guam
Guam
?
?
organized, unincorporated territory of the US with policy relations between Guam and the US under the jurisdiction of the Office of Territorial and International Affairs, US Department of the Interior
Agana
none (territory of the US)
Independence: none (territory of the US)
#
?
Guam Discovery Day (first Monday in March) (1521); Liberation Day, 21 July
Organic Act of 1 August 1950
modeled on US; federal laws apply
18 years of age; universal; US citizens, but do not vote in US presidential elections
President (of the United States) William Jefferson CLINTON (since 20 January 1993); Vice President Albert GORE, Jr. (since 20 January 1993)
Governor Carl GUTIERREZ (since 8 November 1994) and Lieutenant Governor Madeleine BORDALLO (since 8 November 1994) were elected for a four-year term by popular vote; election last held 8 November 1994 (next to be held NA November 1998); results - Carl GUTIERREZ (Democrat) defeated Tommy TANAKA (Republican) with 54.6% of the vote
#
executive departments; heads appointed by the governor with the consent of the Guam legislature
#
unicameral
Legislature: elections last held 8 November 1994 (next to be held NA November 1996); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (21 total) Democrats 14, Republican 7
US House of Representatives: elections last held 8 November 1994 (next to be held NA November 1996); Guam elects one delegate; results - Robert UNDERWOOD was reelected as delegate; seats - (1 total) Democrat 1
#
Federal District Court, judge is appointed by the president; Territorial Superior Court, judges appointed for eight-year terms by the governor
Democratic Party (controls the legislature); Republican Party (party of the Governor)
#
?
#
ESCAP (associate), IOC, SPC
territorial flag is dark blue with a narrow red border on all four sides; centered is a red-bordered, pointed, vertical ellipse containing a beach scene, outrigger canoe with sail, and a palm tree with the word GUAM superimposed in bold red letters; US flag is the national flag
The economy depends mainly on US military spending and on revenues from tourism. Over the past 20 years, the tourist industry has grown rapidly, creating a construction boom for new hotels and the expansion of older ones. Visitors numbered about 900,000 in 1992. The slowdown in Japanese economic growth has been reflected in less vigorous growth in the tourism sector. About 60% of the labor force works for the private sector and the rest for government. Most food and industrial goods are imported, with about 75% from the US. Guam faces the problem of building up the civilian economic sector to offset the impact of military downsizing.
#
?
?
?
?
?
?
4
46930
federal and territorial government 40%, private 60% (trade 18%, services 15.6%, construction 13.8%, other 12.6%) (1990)
2
525
395
US military, tourism, construction, transshipment services, concrete products, printing and publishing, food processing, textiles
mostly transshipments of refined petroleum products, construction materials, fish, food and beverage products
US 25%, Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands 63%, other 12%
493.00
petroleum and petroleum products, food, manufactured goods
US 23%, Japan 19%, other 58%
?
although Guam receives no foreign aid, it does receive large transfer payments from the general revenues of the US Federal Treasury into which Guamanians pay no income or excise taxes; under the provisions of a special law of Congress, the Guamanian Treasury, rather than the US Treasury, receives federal income taxes paid by military and civilian Federal employees stationed in Guam
?
1 United States dollar (US$) = 100 cents
?
1 October - 30 September
?
674
NA km
NA km
?
?
?
?
Apra Harbor
?
?
?
?
4
2
1
?
?
1
?
?
?
?
?
?
26317
NA
satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Pacific Ocean); submarine cables to US and Japan
3
3
0
?
3
75000
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
@Guatemala
0
0$Guatemala$1464$-9052$1095000$
#
The Mayan Empire flourished in Guatemala a thousand years before it became a
Spanish colony in 1524. In 1821, Guatemala became part of Mexico and in 1839
an independent republic. Over a century of violence and political
suppression followed, the one dictatorship following the other. Since 1945,
the country has seen a swing toward socialism, an armed revolt, renewed
social reform, a military coup, and, in 1986, a return to civilian rule. In
February 1976, a series of earthquakes left 23,000 dead, 77,000 injured and
1,200,000 homeless. Executive power is with the president, chosen for a
single four-year term. Legislative power lies with the single-chamber
parliament, the National Congress, whose 100 members are chosen every four
years by general election.
The country is divided into 22 departments (departamentos), which are subdivided into local councils (municipios).
#
GCA
Middle America, bordering the Caribbean Sea, between Honduras and Belize and bordering the North Pacific Ocean, between El Salvador and Mexico
108890
108430
1687
Belize 266 km, El Salvador 203 km, Honduras 256 km, Mexico 962 km
400
?
200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
200
?
12
border with Belize in dispute; talks to resolve the dispute are stalled
tropical; hot, humid in lowlands; cooler in highlands
mostly mountains with narrow coastal plains and rolling limestone plateau (Peten)
Pacific Ocean 0 m
Volcan Tajumulco 4,211 m
petroleum, nickel, rare woods, fish, chicle
12
4
12
40
32
780
deforestation; soil erosion; water pollution
numerous volcanoes in mountains, with frequent violent earthquakes; Caribbean coast subject to hurricanes and other tropical storms
party to - Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Law of the Sea
11277614
43
2464498
2362457
54
3026834
3031278
3
184927
207620
2.48
33.96
7.15
-1.98
1.05
1.04
1
0.89
1.01
50.70
65.24
62.64
67.97
4.50
Guatemalan(s)
Guatemalan
Mestizo - mixed Amerindian-Spanish ancestry (in local Spanish called Ladino) 56%, Amerindian or predominantly Amerindian 44%
#
Roman Catholic, Protestant, traditional Mayan
Spanish 60%, Indian language 40% (23 Indian dialects, including Quiche, Cakchiquel, Kekchi)
55.60
62.50
48.60
Republic of Guatemala
Guatemala
Republica de Guatemala
Guatemala
republic
Guatemala
22 departments (departamentos, singular - departamento); Alta Verapaz, Baja Verapaz, Chimaltenango, Chiquimula, El Progreso, Escuintla, Guatemala, Huehuetenango, Izabal, Jalapa, Jutiapa, Peten, Quetzaltenango, Quiche, Retalhuleu, Sacatepequez, San Marcos, Santa Rosa, Solola, Suchitepequez, Totonicapan, Zacapa
Independence: 15 September 1821 (from Spain)
#
?
Independence Day, 15 September (1821)
31 May 1985, effective 14 January 1986
civil law system; judicial review of legislative acts; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
18 years of age; universal
President Alvaro Enrique ARZU Irigoyen (since 14 January 1996); Vice President Luis Alberto FLORES Asturias (since 14 January 1996); results - Alvaro Enrique ARZU Irigoyen (PAN) 51.2%, Jorge PORTILLO Cabrera (FRG) 48.8%; ARZU was elected for a four-year term by universal suffrage; election runoff held on 14 January 1996 (next to be held November 2000)
?
#
Council of Ministers was named by the president
#
unicameral
Congress of the Republic (Congreso de la Republica): elections were held on 12 November 1995 to select 80 new congressmen (next election will be held in November 2000); results - seats (80 total) PAN 43, FRG 21, FDNG 6, DCG 4, UCN 3, UD 2, MLN 1
note: on 11 November 1993 the congress approved a procedure that reduced its number from 116 seats to 80; the procedure provided for a special election in mid-1994 to elect an interim congress of 80 members to serve until replaced in the November 1995 general election; the plan was approved in a general referendum in January 1994 and the special election was held on 14 August 1994
#
Supreme Court of Justice (Corte Suprema de Justicia); additionally the Court of Constitutionality is presided over by the President of the Supreme Court, judges are elected for a five-year term by Congress
National Centrist Union (UCN), (vacant); Solidarity Action Movement (MAS), Oliverio GARCIA Rodas; Christian Democratic Party (DCG), Alfonso CABRERA Hidalgo; National Advancement Party (PAN), Alvaro ARZU Irigoyen; National Liberation Movement (MLN), Mario SANDOVAL Alarcon; Social Democratic Party (PSD), Mario SOLORZANO Martinez; Revolutionary Party (PR), Carlos CHAVARRIA Perez; Guatemalan Republican Front (FRG), Efrain RIOS Montt; Democratic Union (UD), Jose CHEA Urruela; New Guatemalan Democratic Front (FDNG), Jorge GONZALEZ del Valle
#
Coordinating Committee of Agricultural, Commercial, Industrial, and Financial Associations (CACIF); Mutual Support Group (GAM); Agrarian Owners Group (UNAGRO); Committee for Campesino Unity (CUC); leftist guerrilla movement known as Guatemalan National Revolutionary Union (URNG) has four main factions - Guerrilla Army of the Poor (EGP); Revolutionary Organization of the People in Arms (ORPA); Rebel Armed Forces (FAR); Guatemalan Labor Party (PGT/O)
three equal vertical bands of light blue (hoist side), white, and light blue with the coat of arms centered in the white band; the coat of arms includes a green and red quetzal (the national bird) and a scroll bearing the inscription LIBERTAD 15 DE SEPTIEMBRE DE 1821 (the original date of independence from Spain) all superimposed on a pair of crossed rifles and a pair of crossed swords and framed by a wreath
The economy is based on family and corporate agriculture, which accounts for 25% of GDP, employs about 60% of the labor force, and supplies two-thirds of exports. Manufacturing, predominantly in private hands, accounts for about 20% of GDP and 12% of the labor force. In both 1990 and 1991, the economy grew by 3%, the fourth and fifth consecutive years of mild growth. In 1992 growth picked up to almost 5% as government policies favoring competition and foreign trade and investment took stronger hold. In 1993-94, despite political unrest, this momentum continued, foreign investment held up, and annual growth averaged 4%. Strong international prices for Guatemala's traditional commodity exports featured 4.9% growth in 1995. Given the markedly uneven distribution of land and income, the government faces major obstacles in its program of economic modernization and the reduction of poverty.
#
4.90
1340
15112
25
20
55
9
3200000
agriculture 60%, services 13%, manufacturing 12%, commerce 7%, construction 4%, transport 3%, utilities 0.7%, mining 0.3% (1985)
4.90
1600.00
1880.00
sugar, textiles and clothing, furniture, chemicals, petroleum, metals, rubber, tourism
transit country for cocaine shipments; illicit producer of opium poppy and cannabis for the international drug trade; the government has an active eradication program for cannabis and opium poppy
2300
coffee, sugar, bananas, cardamom, beef
US 30%, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Germany, Honduras
2850.00
fuel and petroleum products, machinery, grain, fertilizers, motor vehicles
US 44%, Mexico, Venezuela, Japan, Germany
3100
ODA, $84 million (1993)
?
1 quetzal (Q) = 100 centavos
5.93
calendar year
884
884 km 0.914-m gauge (single track)
12033
3,117 km (including 125 km of expressways)
8,916 km (1992 est.)
260
275
?
?
Champerico, Puerto Barrios, Puerto Quetzal, San Jose, Santo Tomas de Castilla
?
?
?
?
463
1
1
2
5
320
?
1
9
124
?
?
210000
NA
connected to Central American Microwave System; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean)
91
0
15
400000
25
475000
Army, Navy, Air Force
#
2659155
1737850
126847
130000000
1
@Guernsey
United Kingdom
#
#
Western Europe, islands in the English Channel, northwest of France
194
194
?
?
50
?
?
?
12
3
none
temperate with mild winters and cool summers; about 50% of days are overcast
mostly level with low hills in southwest
Atlantic Ocean 0 m
unnamed location on Sark 114 m
cropland
?
?
?
?
?
?
NA
NA
NA
62920
18
5592
5439
67
20636
21472
15
3925
5856
1.28
13.06
9.73
9.44
1.04
1.03
0.96
0.67
0.92
9.20
78.22
75.28
81.27
1.56
Channel Islander(s)
Channel Islander
UK and Norman-French descent
#
Anglican, Roman Catholic, Presbyterian, Baptist, Congregational, Methodist
English, French, Norman-French dialect spoken in country districts
?
?
?
Bailiwick of Guernsey
Guernsey
?
?
British crown dependency
Saint Peter Port
none (British crown dependency)
Independence: none (British crown dependency)
#
?
Liberation Day, 9 May (1945)
unwritten; partly statutes, partly common law and practice
English law and local statute; justice is administered by the Royal Court
18 years of age; universal
Queen ELIZABETH II (of the United Kingdom since 6 February 1952) is a hereditary monarch
Lieutenant Governor and Commander in Chief Vice-Admiral Sir John COWARD (since NA 1994) and Bailiff Mr. Graham Martyn DOREY (since February 1992) were appointed by the queen
#
Advisory and Finance Committee (other committees); appointed by the Assembly of the States
#
unicameral
Assembly of the States: elections last held NA (next to be held NA); results - no percent of vote by party since all are independents; seats - (60 total, 33 elected), all independents
#
Royal Court
none; all independents
#
?
#
none
white with the red cross of Saint George (patron saint of England) extending to the edges of the flag
Financial services account for about 55% of total income. Tourism, manufacturing, and horticulture, mainly tomatoes and cut flowers, have been declining. Bank profits (1992) registered a record 26% growth. Fund management and insurance are the two other major income generators.
tomatoes, flowers and ferns, sweet peppers, eggplant, other vegetables
UK (regarded as internal trade)
?
coal, gasoline, and oil
UK (regarded as internal trade)
?
?
?
1 Guernsey (úG) pound = 100 pence
0.65
calendar year
?
?
NA km
NA km
?
?
?
?
Saint Peter Port, Saint Sampson
?
?
?
?
2
?
?
?
1
1
?
?
?
?
?
?
41850
NA
1 submarine cable
1
1
0
?
1
?
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
@Guinea
0
0$Conakry$955$-1367$1100000$
#
Formerly part of the ancient West African empires Ghana, Mali, and Songhay,
Guinea was visited by the Portuguese in 1446, but escaped the slave-trade
because it was considered too unhealthy a region. Following the annexation
of part of its north coast by France, in 1849, Fouta Djallon (part of
Guinea) became a French protectorate in 1881. In 1885, French Guinea became
part of French West Africa. Guinea became a fully independent republic on 2
October 1958. The military took control of the government in a bloodless
coup in March 1984. The constitution of 1958 was suspended by the ComitΘ
Militaire de Redressement National (CMRN). Guinea is divided into 33
districts.
#
RG
Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Guinea-Bissau and Sierra Leone
245860
245860
3399
Guinea-Bissau 386 km, Cote d'Ivoire 610 km, Liberia 563 km, Mali 858 km, Senegal 330 km, Sierra Leone 652 km
320
?
?
200
?
12
none
generally hot and humid; monsoonal-type rainy season (June to November) with southwesterly winds; dry season (December to May) with northeasterly harmattan winds
generally flat coastal plain, hilly to mountainous interior
Atlantic Ocean 0 m
Mont Nimba 1,752 m
bauxite, iron ore, diamonds, gold, uranium, hydropower, fish
6
0
12
42
40
240
deforestation; inadequate supplies of potable water; desertification; soil contamination and erosion; overfishing
hot, dry, dusty harmattan haze may reduce visibility during dry season
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Hazardous Wastes
Anniversary of the Second Republic, 3 April (1984)
23 December 1990 (Loi Fundamentale)
based on French civil law system, customary law, and decree; legal codes currently being revised; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
18 years of age; universal
President Lansana CONTE, elected in the first multiparty election 19 December 1993 (president must be elected by a majority of the votes cast); prior to the election he had ruled as head of military government since 5 April 1984
?
#
Council of Ministers was appointed by the president
#
unicameral
People's National Assembly (Assemblee Nationale Populaire): the People's National Assembly was dissolved after the 3 April 1984 coup; framework established in December 1991 for a new National Assembly with 114 seats; legislative elections were held on 11 June 1995; results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (114 total) PUP 71, RPG 19, PRP 9, UNR 9, UPG 2, PDG 1, UNP 1, PDG/RDA 1, other 1
#
Court of Appeal (Cour d'Appel)
political parties were legalized on 1 April 1992; of the more than 40 with legal status, the following won seats in the legislature in the 11 June 1995 elections
pro-government: Party for Unity and Progress (PUP)
three equal vertical bands of red (hoist side), yellow, and green; uses the popular pan-African colors of Ethiopia; similar to the flag of Rwanda, which has a large black letter R centered in the yellow band
Although possessing major mineral, hydropower, and agricultural resources, Guinea remains one of the poorest countries in the world. The agricultural sector employs 80% of the work force. Guinea possesses over 25% of the world's bauxite reserves. The mining sector accounted for 85% of exports in 1991. Long-run improvements in literacy, financial institutions, and the legal framework are needed if the country is to move out of poverty. Except in the bauxite industry, foreign investment remains minimal.
#
4
540
4002
24
31
45
4.10
2400000
agriculture 80.0%, industry and commerce 11.0%, services 5.4%, civil service 3.6%
petroleum products, metals, machinery, transport equipment, textiles, grain and other foodstuffs
France 26%, Cote d'Ivoire 12%, Hong Kong 6%, Germany 6%
3020
ODA, $NA
?
1 Guinean franc (FG) = 100 centimes
995.30
calendar year
1086
279 km 1.435-m gauge
807 km 1.000-m gauge; note - includes 662 km in common carrier service from Kankan to Conakry
Rally for the Guinean People (RPG), Alpha CONDE; Union for a New Republic (UNR), Mamadou BAH; Party for Renewal and Progress (PRP), Siradiou DIALLO; Union for Progress of Guinea (UPG), Secretary-General Jean-Marie DORE; Democratic Party of Guinea (DPG), Ahmed Sekou TOURE; National Union for the Prosperity of Guinea (UNPG), Lt.Col. Facine TOURE, leader; Democratic Party of Guinea (PDG), El Hadj Ismael Mohamed Gassim GUSHEIN, leader
29750
4,490 km
25,260 km (1991 est.)
1295
?
?
?
Boke, Conakry, Kamsar
?
?
?
?
14
1
2
1
?
1
?
?
6
3
?
?
18000
microwave radio relay and radiotelephone communication
satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean)
3
1
0
257000
1
65000
Army, Navy (acts primarily as a coast guard), Air Force, Republican Guard, Presidential Guard, paramilitary National Gendarmerie, National Police Force (Surete National)
#
1684264
849404
?
50000000
1.60
@Guinea-bissau
0
0$Bissau$1175$-1575$200000$
#
The Portuguese Nu±o Tristπo was the first European to site the coast of
Guinea-Bissau in 1446. Guinea-Bissau and the Cape Verde islands became a
single administrative area under Portuguese control in 1834. They were
separated in 1879 and the area now called Guinea-Bissau became Portuguese
Guinea. The struggle for independence started in the early 1960's and in
1973 an own government and parliament were elected. Full independence was
gained on 10 September 1974, following the overthrow of the government in
Portugal. In November 1980, a military coup brought Joao Bernardo Vieira to
power. The office of prime-minister was abolished in 1984 and Vieira was
given absolute power.
Guinea-Bissau, one of the poorest countries in the world, is divided into 8 regions and 1 autonomous sector.
#
?
Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Guinea and Senegal
36120
28000
724
Guinea 386 km, Senegal 338 km
350
?
?
200
?
12
none
tropical; generally hot and humid; monsoonal-type rainy season (June to November) with southwesterly winds; dry season (December to May) with northeasterly harmattan winds
mostly low coastal plain rising to savanna in east
Atlantic Ocean 0 m
unnamed location in the northeast corner of the country 300 m
phosphates, bauxite, unexploited deposits of petroleum, fish, timber
16 May 1984, amended 4 May 1991 (currently undergoing revision to liberalize popular participation in the government)
NA
15 years of age; universal
President of the Republic of Guinea-Bissau Joao Bernardo VIEIRA (assumed power 14 November 1980) was elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held August 1994 (next to be held 1999); results - Joao Bernardo VIEIRA 52%, Kumba YALLA 48%
Prime Minister Manuel SATURNINO (since 5 November 1994) was appointed by the president
#
Council of Ministers was appointed by the president
#
unicameral
National People's Assembly: (Assembleia Nacional Popular) elections last held 3 July and 7 August 1994 (next to be held 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (100 total) PAIGC 62, RGB 19, PRS 12, Union for Change Coalition 6, FLING 1
#
none; there is a Ministry of Justice in the Council of Ministers
African Party for the Independence of Guinea-Bissau and Cape Verde (PAIGC), President Joao Bernardo VIEIRA, leader; Guinea-Bissau Resistance (RGB), Helder Jorge VAZ Gomes Lopes, leader; Democratic Front (FD); Social Renovation Party (PRS), Koumba YALLA, leader; Union for Change Coalition; Front for the Liberation and Independence of Guinea (FLING); Democratic Social Front (FDS), Rafael BARBOSA, leader; Bafata Movement, Domingos Fernandes GARNER, leader; Guinea-Bissau Resistance (RGB); Union for Change Coalition
two equal horizontal bands of yellow (top) and green with a vertical red band on the hoist side; there is a black five-pointed star centered in the red band; uses the popular pan-African colors of Ethiopia
Guinea-Bissau ranks among the poorest countries in the world. Agriculture and fishing are the main economic activities. Cashew nuts, peanuts, and palm kernels are the primary exports. Exploitation of known mineral deposits is unlikely at present because of a weak infrastructure and the high cost of development. With IMF support, the country is committed to an economic reform program emphasizing monetary stability and private sector growth. This process will continue at a slow pace because of a heavy foreign debt burden and internal constraints.
#
?
250
288
44
8
48
15
403000
agriculture 90%, industry, services, and commerce 5%, government 5%
rice, corn, beans, cassava (tapioca), cashew nuts, peanuts, palm kernels, cotton; fishing and forest potential not fully exploited
?
32
cashews, fish, peanuts, palm kernels
Portugal, Spain, Senegal, India, Nigeria, Cote d'Ivoire
63
foodstuffs, transport equipment, petroleum products, machinery and equipment
Portugal, Netherlands, China, Germany, Senegal
692
ODA, $NA
?
1 Guinea-Bissauan peso (PG) = 100 centavos
17659
calendar year
?
3200
416 km
2,784 km (1988 est.)
?
?
?
?
Bissau
?
?
?
?
16
1
?
2
1
8
?
?
?
4
?
?
3000
combination of microwave radio relay, open-wire lines, and radiotelephone communications
NA
2
3
0
40000
1
?
People's Revolutionary Armed Force (FARP; includes Army, Navy, and Air Force), paramilitary force
#
259738
148291
?
9000000
4.50
@Guyana
0
0$Georgetown$683$-5819$180000$
#
Guyana became a Dutch possession in the 17th century. The Dutch West India
company established settlements between 1616 and 1621. Sovereignty passed to
Britain in 1815. Guyana became independent on 26 May 1966. Venezuela claims
the western half of the country, and the border with Suriname is also
disputed. Theoretically, Guyana is a single-chamber parliamentary democracy.
In reality, all power is in the hands of Forbes Burnham and the People's
National Congress (PNC) party.
Guyana is divided into 10 regions.
#
GUY
Northern South America, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Suriname and Venezuela
214970
196850
2462
Brazil 1,119 km, Suriname 600 km, Venezuela 743 km
459
?
200 nm or to the outer edge of the continental margin
?
200
12
all of the area west of the Essequibo River claimed by Venezuela; Suriname claims area between New (Upper Courantyne) and Courantyne/Kutari Rivers (all headwaters of the Courantyne)
tropical; hot, humid, moderated by northeast trade winds; two rainy seasons (May to mid-August, mid-November to mid-January)
mostly rolling highlands; low coastal plain; savanna in south
Atlantic Ocean 0 m
Mount Roraima 2,835 m
bauxite, gold, diamonds, hardwood timber, shrimp, fish
3
0
6
83
8
1300
water pollution from sewage and agricultural and industrial chemicals; deforestation
flash floods are a constant threat during rainy seasons
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection, Tropical Timber 83, Whaling
712091
33
118796
114327
63
224219
222562
4
14582
17605
-0.90
19.03
9.55
-18.47
1.05
1.04
1.01
0.83
1.01
51.40
60.10
57.55
62.78
2.19
Guyanese (singular and plural)
Guyanese
East Indian 51%, black and mixed 43%, Amerindian 4%, European and Chinese 2%
based on English common law with certain admixtures of Roman-Dutch law; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
18 years of age; universal
Executive President Cheddi JAGAN (since 9 October 1992); the president is elected by the majority party in the National Assembly after legislative elections, which must be held within five years; legislative elections last held 5 October 1992 (next to be held NA 1997); results - Cheddi JAGAN was elected president by the PPP
Prime Minister Sam HINDS (since 9 October 1992) was appointed by the president
#
Cabinet of Ministers was appointed by the president; is responsible to the legislature
#
unicameral
National Assembly: elections last held on 5 October 1992 (next to be held in 1997); results - PPP 53.4%, PNC 42.3%, WPA 2%, TUF 1.2%; seats - (65 total, 53 elected) PPP 36, PNC 26, WPA 2, TUF 1
#
Supreme Court of Judicature
People's Progressive Party (PPP), Cheddi JAGAN; People's National Congress (PNC), Hugh Desmond HOYTE; Good and Green Georgetown (GGG), Hamilton GREEN; Working People's Alliance (WPA), Eusi KWAYANA, Rupert ROOPNARINE; Democratic Labor Movement (DLM), Paul TENNASSEE; People's Democratic Movement (PDM), Llewellyn JOHN; National Democratic Front (NDF), Joseph BACCHUS; The United Force (TUF), Manzoor NADIR; United Republican Party (URP), Leslie RAMSAMMY; National Republican Party (NRP), Robert GANGADEEN; Guyana Labor Party (GLP), Nanda GOPAUL
#
Trades Union Congress (TUC); Guyana Council of Indian Organizations (GCIO); Civil Liberties Action Committee (CLAC)
note: the latter two organizations are small and active but not well organized
green with a red isosceles triangle (based on the hoist side) superimposed on a long yellow arrowhead; there is a narrow black border between the red and yellow, and a narrow white border between the yellow and the green
In 1995, Guyana, one of the poorest countries in the Western Hemisphere, posted its fifth straight year of economic growth of 5% or better, with the advance led by gold mining and by production of rice, sugar, and forestry products for export. Favorable factors include recovery in the key agricultural and mining sectors, a more favorable atmosphere for business initiative, a more realistic exchange rate, a sharp drop in the inflation rate, and the continued support of international organizations. Serious underlying economic problems will continue. Electric power has been in short supply and constitutes a major barrier to future gains in national output. The government must persist in efforts to manage its $2 billion external debt, control inflation, and extend the privatization program.
#
5.10
590
420
26.50
27.80
45.70
8.10
268000
industry and commerce 44.5%, agriculture 33.8%, services 21.7%
sugar, rice, wheat, vegetable oils; beef, pork, poultry, dairy products; development potential exists for fishing and forestry
transshipment point for narcotics from South America - primarily Venezuela - to the US and Europe; producer of cannabis
453
sugar, bauxite/alumina, rice, shrimp, molasses
UK 33%, US 31%, Canada 9%, France 5%, Japan 3% (1992)
456
manufactures, machinery, petroleum, food
US 37%, Trinidad and Tobago 13%, UK 11%, Italy 8%, Japan 5% (1992)
2200
ODA, $NA
?
1 Guyanese dollar (G$) = 100 cents
140.30
calendar year
88
40 km 1.435-m gauge (dedicated to ore transport)
48 km 0.914-m gauge (dedicated to ore transport)
7621
547 km
7,074 km (1987 est.)
6000
?
?
?
Bartica, Georgetown, Linden, New Amsterdam, Parika
1
1317
2558
?
47
?
?
3
1
32
?
?
2
9
?
?
33000
microwave radio relay network for trunk lines
tropospheric scatter to Trinidad; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean)
4
3
1
398000
0
32000
Guyana Defense Force (GDF; includes Ground Forces, Coast Guard, and Air Corps), Guyana People's Militia (GPM), Guyana National Service (GNS)
#
197548
149646
?
7000000
1.70
@Haiti
0
0$Port-au-Prince$1855$-7233$1500000$
#
Haiti was visited by Columbus in 1492. It became a French colony in 1677.
Following a rebellion led by the former slave Toussaint L'Ouverture, Haiti
became independent in 1804. The country was under US occupation from 1915
until 1934. Attempts at establishing a democracy were interrupted by a period
of dictatorship during the Second World War, and then defeated by the
election in 1957 of Franτois Duvalier ('Papa Doc') as president. He was
named president for life in 1964, and upon his death in 1971, was succeeded
by his son, Jean-Claude. Baby Doc, as he is known, fled the country in 1986.
Control was seized in 1988 by General Henri Namphy, after charges of fraud
during elections held the previous January. Haiti is the poorest nation in
the western hemisphere. Haiti is divided into 9 departments, 26 provinces
and one federal district.
#
RH
Caribbean, western one-third of the island of Hispaniola, between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, west of the Dominican Republic
27750
27560
275
Dominican Republic 275 km
1771
24
to depth of exploitation
200
?
12
claims US-administered Navassa Island
tropical; semiarid where mountains in east cut off trade winds
mostly rough and mountainous
Caribbean Sea 0 m
Chaine de la Selle 2,680 m
bauxite
20
13
18
4
45
750
extensive deforestation (much of the remaining forested land is being cleared for agriculture and use as fuel); soil erosion; inadequate supplies of potable water
lies in the middle of the hurricane belt and subject to severe storms from June to October; occasional flooding and earthquakes; periodic droughts
party to - Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Desertification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban
6731539
46
1568943
1523406
50
1614679
1758388
4
132460
133663
1.77
38.15
15.96
-4.52
1.05
1.03
0.92
0.99
0.97
103.80
49.26
47.26
51.35
5.69
Haitian(s)
Haitian
black 95%, mulatto and European 5%
#
Roman Catholic 80% (of which an overwhelming majority also practice Voodoo), Protestant 16% (Baptist 10%, Pentecostal 4%, Adventist 1%, other 1%), none 1%, other 3% (1982)
approved March 1987, suspended June 1988, most articles reinstated March 1989; in October 1991, government claimed to be observing the constitution; return to constitutional rule, October 1994
based on Roman civil law system; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
18 years of age; universal
President Rene Garcia PREVAL (since 7 February 1996), was elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 17 December 1995 (next to be held by December 2000); results - Rene PREVAL 88%, Leon JEUNE 2.5%, Victor BENOIT 2.3%
Prime Minister Rosny SMARTH (since March 1996) was appointed by the president
#
Cabinet; was chosen by prime minister in consultation with the president
#
bicameral National Assembly (Assemblee Nationale)
Senate: elections last held 25 June 1995 with reruns on 13 August and runoffs on 17 September (next to be held 25 June 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - 27 total
Chamber of Deputies: elections last held 25 June 1995 with reruns on 13 August and runoffs on 17 September; results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - 83 total
#
Court of Appeal (Cour de Cassation)
National Front for Change and Democracy (FNCD), Evans PAUL and Turneb DELPE; National Cooperative Action Movement (MKN), Volvick Remy JOSEPH; National Congress of Democratic Movements (CONACOM), Victor BENOIT; Movement for the Installation of Democracy in Haiti (MIDH), Marc BAZIN; National Progressive Revolutionary Party (PANPRA), Serge GILLES; National Patriotic Movement of November 28 (MNP-28), Dejean BELIZAIRE; National Agricultural and Industrial Party (PAIN), Louis DEJOIE; Movement for National Reconstruction (MRN), Rene THEODORE; Haitian Christian Democratic Party (PDCH), Fritz PIERRE; Assembly of Progressive National Democrats (RDNP), Leslie MANIGAT; National Labor Party (PNT), Remy ZAMOR; Mobilization for National Development (MDN), Hubert DE RONCERAY; Democratic Movement for the Liberation of Haiti (MODELH), Francois LATORTUE; Haitian Social Christian Party (PSCH), Gregoire EUGENE; Movement for the Organization of the Country (MOP), Gesner COMEAU and Jean MOLIERE; Democratic Unity Confederation (KID), Evans PAUL; National Lavalas Political Organization (OPL), Gerard PIERRE-CHARLES; Open the Gate Party (PLB), Renaud BERNARDIN; Haitian National Democratic Progressive Party (PNDPH), Turneb DELPE
#
Roman Catholic Church; Confederation of Haitian Workers (CTH); Federation of Workers Trade Unions (FOS); Autonomous Haitian Workers (CATH); National Popular Assembly (APN); Papaye Peasants Movement (MPP)
two equal horizontal bands of blue (top) and red with a centered white rectangle bearing the coat of arms, which contains a palm tree flanked by flags and two cannons above a scroll bearing the motto L'UNION FAIT LA FORCE (Union Makes Strength)
About 75% of the population lives in abject poverty. Nearly 70% of all Haitians depend on the agriculture sector, which consists mainly of small-scale subsistence farming and employs about two-thirds of the economically active work force. The country has experienced only moderate job creation since President ARISTIDE was returned to power in October 1994. Failure to reach agreement with multilateral lenders in late 1995 led to rising deficit spending and subsequently increasing inflation and a drop in the value of the Haitian currency in the final months of 1995. Potential investors, both foreign and domestic, have been reluctant to risk their capital, planning to "wait and see" what happens in the months following the inauguration of newly elected President Rene PREVAL and the drawdown of UN peacekeeping forces. The PREVAL government will have to grapple with implementing necessary, although unpopular, economic reforms in order to obtain badly needed foreign aid and improve Haiti's ability to attract foreign capital if the Haitian economy is to gain momentum. Haiti will continue to depend heavily on foreign aid in the medium term.
#
4.50
250
1683
34.80
23
42.20
14.50
2300000
agriculture 66%, services 25%, industry 9%
60
242
299.40
sugar refining, flour milling, textiles, cement, tourism, light assembly industries based on imported parts
satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean)
33
0
2
320000
4
32000
Haitian National Police
#
1379116
746617
67287
?
?
@Heard Island and McDonald Islands
0
#
#
Southern Africa, islands in the Indian Ocean, about two-thirds of the way from Madagascar to Antarctica
412
412
?
?
101.90
?
?
?
200
3
none
antarctic
Heard Island - bleak and mountainous, with a quiescent volcano; McDonald Islands - small and rocky
Indian Ocean 0 m
Big Ben 2,745 m
none
0
0
0
0
100
0
NA
Heard Island is dominated by a dormant volcano called Big Ben
NA
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
Territory of Heard Island and McDonald Islands
Heard Island and McDonald Islands
?
?
territory of Australia administered by the Ministry for Environment, Sport, and Territories
none; administered from Canberra, Australia
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
#
?
#
?
?
#
?
#
?
the flag of Australia is used
no economic activity
Transportation
#
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
none; offshore anchorage only
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
@Holy See (Vatican City)
0
#
#
Southern Europe, an enclave of Rome (Italy)
0.44
0.44
3.20
Italy 3.2 km
0
?
?
?
?
?
none
temperate; mild, rainy winters (September to mid-May) with hot, dry summers (May to September)
low hill
unnamed location 19 m
unnamed location 75 m
none
0
0
0
0
100
0
NA
NA
signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution, Environmental Modification
840
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
1.15
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
none
none
Italians, Swiss
#
Roman Catholic
Italian, Latin, various other languages
?
?
?
The Holy See (State of the Vatican City)
Holy See (Vatican City)
Santa Sede (Stato della Citta del Vaticano)
Santa Sede (Citta del Vaticano)
monarchical-sacerdotal state
Vatican City
?
#
?
Installation Day of the Pope, 22 October (1978) (John Paul II)
Apostolic Constitution of 1967 (effective 1 March 1968)
NA
limited to cardinals less than 80 years old
Pope JOHN PAUL II (Karol WOJTYLA; since 16 October 1978) was elected for life by the College of Cardinals; election last held 16 October 1978 (next to be held after the death of the current pope); results - Karol WOJTYLA was elected for life by the College of Cardinals
Secretary of State Archbishop Angelo Cardinal SODANO (since NA 1991) was appointed by the pope
#
Pontifical Commission was appointed by Pope
#
unicameral Pontifical Commission
#
none; normally handled by Italy
none
#
none (exclusive of influence exercised by church officers)
#
IAEA, ICFTU, Intelsat, IOM (observer), ITU, OAS (observer), OSCE, UN (observer), UNCTAD, UNHCR, UPU, WIPO, WToO (observer)
two vertical bands of yellow (hoist side) and white with the crossed keys of Saint Peter and the papal miter centered in the white band
This unique, noncommercial economy is supported financially by contributions (known as Peter's Pence) from Roman Catholics throughout the world, the sale of postage stamps and tourist mementos, fees for admission to museums, and the sale of publications. The incomes and living standards of lay workers are comparable to, or somewhat better than, those of counterparts who work in the city of Rome.
#
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
dignitaries, priests, nuns, guards, and 3,000 lay workers who live outside the Vatican
?
175.50
175
printing and production of a small amount of mosaics and staff uniforms; worldwide banking and financial activities
?
0.01
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
1 Vatican lira (VLit) = 100 centesimi
1583.80
calendar year
862
862 meters 1.435-m gauge
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
none
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
2000
tied into Italian system
uses Italian system
3
4
0
?
0
?
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
@Honduras
0
0$Tegucigalpa$1408$-8723$700000$
#
Once the site of a flourishing Mayan civilization, Honduras was 'discovered'
by Columbus in 1502. He gave the land its name (Honduras=Depths). It was a
Spanish colony until independence in 1821. It then formed part of the
Federation of Central America until it declared itself a republic in 1838.
The army held power for most of the period from 1963-82. In that year, a
civilian government was again elected. Legislative power lies with the
82-member National Congress. Elections are held every four years. Executive
power is with the president. Honduras is divided into 18 departments.
#
HCA
Middle America, bordering the Caribbean Sea, between Guatemala and Nicaragua and bordering the North Pacific Ocean, between El Salvador and Nicaragua
112090
111890
1520
Guatemala 256 km, El Salvador 342 km, Nicaragua 922 km
820
24
natural extension of territory or to 200 nm
200
?
12
land boundary dispute with El Salvador mostly resolved by 11 September 1992 International Court of Justice (ICJ) decision; with respect to the maritime boundary in the Golfo de Fonseca, ICJ referred to an earlier agreement in this century and advised that some tripartite resolution among El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua likely would be required; maritime boundary dispute with Nicaragua
subtropical in lowlands, temperate in mountains
mostly mountains in interior, narrow coastal plains
Caribbean Sea 0 m
Cerro Las Minas 2,870 m
timber, gold, silver, copper, lead, zinc, iron ore, antimony, coal, fish
14
2
30
34
20
900
urban population expanding; deforestation results from logging and the clearing of land for agricultural purposes; further land degradation and soil erosion hastened by uncontrolled development and improper land use practices such as farming of marginal lands; mining activities polluting Lago de Yojoa (the country's largest source of freshwater) with heavy metals as well as several rivers and streams
frequent, but generally mild, earthquakes; damaging hurricanes and floods along Caribbean coast
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Tropical Timber 94
5605193
43
1220188
1177725
54
1496625
1520918
3
91126
98611
2.60
33.38
5.83
-1.53
1.05
1.04
0.98
0.92
1
41.80
68.42
66.01
70.96
4.41
Honduran(s)
Honduran
mestizo (mixed Indian and European) 90%, Indian 7%, black 2%, white 1%
#
Roman Catholic 97%, Protestant minority
Spanish, Indian dialects
72.70
72.60
72.70
Republic of Honduras
Honduras
Republica de Honduras
Honduras
republic
Tegucigalpa
18 departments (departamentos, singular - departamento); Atlantida, Choluteca, Colon, Comayagua, Copan, Cortes, El Paraiso, Francisco Morazan, Gracias a Dios, Intibuca, Islas de la Bahia, La Paz, Lempira, Ocotepeque, Olancho, Santa Barbara, Valle, Yoro
Independence: 15 September 1821 (from Spain)
#
?
Independence Day, 15 September (1821)
11 January 1982, effective 20 January 1982
rooted in Roman and Spanish civil law; some influence of English common law; accepts ICJ jurisdiction, with reservations
18 years of age; universal and compulsory
President Carlos Roberto REINA Idiaquez (since 27 January 1994) was elected for a four-year term by a simple majority of the people; First Vice President General (Ret.) Walter LOPEZ; Second Vice President Juan DE LA CRUZ Avelar; Third Vice President Guadeloupe JEREZANO; election last held 28 November 1993 (next to be held November 1997); results - Carlos Roberto REINA Idiaquez (PLH) 53%, Oswaldo RAMOS Soto (PNH) 41%, other 6%
?
#
Cabinet
#
unicameral
National Congress (Congreso Nacional): elections last held on 27 November 1993 (next to be held November 1997); results - PNH 53%, PLH 41%, PDCH 1.0%, PINU-SD 2.5%, other 2.5%; seats - (134 total) PNH 55, PLH 77, PINU-SD 2
#
Supreme Court of Justice (Corte Suprema de Justica), judges are elected for four-year terms by the National Assembly
Liberal Party (PLH), Rafael PINEDA Ponce, president; National Party of Honduras (PNH), Oswaldo RAMOS Soto, president; National Innovation and Unity Party (PINU), Olban VALLADARES, president; Christian Democratic Party (PDCH), Efrain DIAZ Arrivillaga, president
#
National Association of Honduran Campesinos (ANACH); Honduran Council of Private Enterprise (COHEP); Confederation of Honduran Workers (CTH); National Union of Campesinos (UNC); General Workers Confederation (CGT); United Federation of Honduran Workers (FUTH); Committee for the Defense of Human Rights in Honduras (CODEH); Coordinating Committee of Popular Organizations (CCOP)
#
BCIE, CACM, ECLAC, FAO, G-77, IADB, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, IOM, ITU, LAES, LAIA (observer), MINURSO, NAM, OAS, OPANAL, PCA, UN, UN Security Council (temporary), UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNMIH, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTrO
three equal horizontal bands of blue (top), white, and blue with five blue five-pointed stars arranged in an X pattern centered in the white band; the stars represent the members of the former Federal Republic of Central America - Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua; similar to the flag of El Salvador, which features a round emblem encircled by the words REPUBLICA DE EL SALVADOR EN LA AMERICA CENTRAL centered in the white band; also similar to the flag of Nicaragua, which features a triangle encircled by the word REPUBLICA DE NICARAGUA on top and AMERICA CENTRAL on the bottom, centered in the white band
Honduras is one of the poorest countries in the Western Hemisphere. Agriculture, the most important sector of the economy, employs nearly two-thirds of the labor force and produces two-thirds of exports. Productivity remains low. Manufacturing, still in its early stages, employs about 9% of the labor force, and generates 20% of exports. Many basic problems face the economy, including rapid population growth, high unemployment, inflation, a lack of basic services, a large and inefficient public sector, and the dependence of the export sector mostly on coffee and bananas, which are subject to sharp price fluctuations. A far-reaching reform program, initiated by former President CALLEJAS in 1990 and scaled back by President REINA, is beginning to take hold.
#
4
600
3363
30
20
50
30
1300000
agriculture 62%, services 20%, manufacturing 9%, construction 3%, other 6% (1985)
10
527
668
sugar, coffee, textiles, clothing, wood products
10
0.29
2300
445
bananas, coffee, citrus; beef; timber; shrimp;
transshipment point for narcotics; illicit producer of cannabis, cultivated on small plots and used principally for local consumption
satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean); connected to Central American Microwave System
176
0
7
2115000
28
400000
Army, Navy (includes Marines), Air Force, Public Security Forces (FUSEP)
#
1322525
787889
64378
41000000
0.40
@Hong Kong
0
0$2228$11422$2100000$Victoria
#
On the coast of south China, consisting of Hong Kong Island, Kowloon
Peninsula, Stonecutters Island, the New Territories (mainland), and over 230
islets. From the Chinese Xianggang, "Pleasantly Smelling Straits". A British
Crown Colony; Hong Kong Island leased by China to Britain in 1842; the New
Territories in 1898 for 99 years.
#
[GB]
Eastern Asia, bordering the South China Sea and China
1040
990
30
China 30 km
733
?
?
?
?
3
none
tropical monsoon; cool and humid in winter, hot and rainy from spring through summer, warm and sunny in fall
hilly to mountainous with steep slopes; lowlands in north
South China Sea 0 m
Tai Mo Shan 958 m
outstanding deepwater harbor, feldspar
7
1
1
12
79
20
air and water pollution from rapid urbanization
occasional typhoons
NA
6305413
19
609493
593687
70
2312141
2094156
11
307186
388750
1.77
10.50
5.23
12.42
1.06
1.03
1.10
0.79
1.05
5.10
82.19
78.88
85.71
1.30
Chinese
Chinese
Chinese 95%, other 5%
#
eclectic mixture of local religions 90%, Christian 10%
Chinese (Cantonese), English
92.20
96
88.20
none
Hong Kong
?
?
dependent territory of the UK scheduled to revert to China on 1 July 1997
Victoria
none (dependent territory of the UK)
Independence: none (dependent territory of the UK; the UK signed an agreement with China on 19 December 1984 to return Hong Kong to China on 1 July 1997; in the joint declaration, China promises to respect Hong Kong's existing social and economic systems and lifestyle)
#
?
Liberation Day, 29 August (1945)
unwritten; partly statutes, partly common law and practice; new Basic Law approved in March 1990 in preparation for 1997
based on English common law
direct election 18 years of age; universal for permanent residents living in the territory of Hong Kong for the past seven years; indirect election limited to about 100,000 professionals of electoral college and functional constituencies
Queen ELIZABETH II (of the United Kingdom since 6 February 1952) is a hereditary monarch
Governor and President of the Executive Council Christopher Francis PATTEN (since 9 July 1992) was appointed by the Queen; Chief Secretary Anson CHAN Fang On-Sang (since 29 November 1993)
#
Executive Council was appointed by the Governor
#
unicameral
Legislative Council: indirect and direct elections last held 17 September 1995 (next to be held NA 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (60 total, 30 indirectly elected by functional constituencies, 20 directly elected, 10 elected by election committee) Democratic Party 21, Liberal Party 10, Democratic Alliance for the Betterment of Hong Kong 6, other parties and independents 23
#
Supreme Court
Democratic Party, Martin LEE, chairman; Liberal Party, Allen LEE, chairman; Democratic Alliance for the Betterment of Hong Kong, TSANG Yuk-shing, chairman; Hong Kong Democratic Foundation, Dr. Patrick SHIU Kin-ying, chairman
#
Association for Democracy and People's Livelihood (ADPL), Frederick FUNG Kin Kee, chairman; Liberal Democratic Federation, HU Fa-kuang, chairman; Federation of Trade Unions (pro-China), LEE Chark-tim, president; Hong Kong and Kowloon Trade Union Council (pro-Taiwan); Confederation of Trade Unions (pro-democracy), LEE Cheuk-yan, chairman; Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce; Chinese General Chamber of Commerce (pro-China); Federation of Hong Kong Industries; Chinese Manufacturers' Association of Hong Kong; Hong Kong Professional Teachers' Union, CHEUNG Man-kwong, president; Hong Kong Alliance in Support of the Patriotic Democratic Movement in China, Szeto WAH, chairman
blue with the flag of the UK in the upper hoist-side quadrant with the Hong Kong coat of arms on a white disk centered on the outer half of the flag; the coat of arms contains a shield (bearing two junks below a crown) held by a lion (representing the UK) and a dragon (representing China) with another lion above the shield and a banner bearing the words HONG KONG below the shield
Hong Kong has a bustling free market economy with few tariffs or nontariff barriers. Natural resources are limited, and food and raw materials must be imported. Manufacturing and construction account for about 18% of GDP. Goods and services exports account for about 50% of GDP. Real GDP growth averaged a remarkable 8% in 1987-88, slowed to 3.0% in 1989-90, and picked up to 4.2% in 1991, 5.0% in 1992, 5.2% in 1993, 5.5% in 1994, and 5.0% in 1995. Unemployment, which has been declining since the mid-1980s, edged up from 2% to 3.5% in 1995. Notwithstanding, a shortage of labor continues to put upward pressure on prices and the cost of living. Prospects for 1996 remain bright so long as major trading partners continue to be reasonably prosperous and so long as investors feel China will support free market practices after the takeover in 1997.
#
5
18650
117596
0.20
18.40
81.40
8.40
2915400
manufacturing 28.5%, wholesale and retail trade, restaurants, and hotels 27.9%, services 17.7%, financing, insurance, and real estate 9.2%, transport and communications 4.5%, construction 2.5%, other 9.7% (1989)
microwave radio relay links and extensive fiber-optic network
satellite earth stations - 3 Intelsat (1 Pacific Ocean and 2 Indian Ocean); coaxial cable to Guangzhou, China; access to 5 international submarine cables providing connections to ASEAN member nations, Japan, Taiwan, Australia, Middle East, and Western Europe
6
6
0
3000000
4
1750000
Headquarters of British Forces, Army, Royal Navy, Royal Air Force, Royal Hong Kong Auxiliary Air Force, Royal Hong Kong Police Force
#
1895535
1442072
46248
207000000
0.20
@Howland Island
United States
#
#
Oceania, island in the North Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from Hawaii to Australia
1.60
1.60
?
?
6.40
?
?
200
?
12
none
equatorial; scant rainfall, constant wind, burning sun
low-lying, nearly level, sandy, coral island surrounded by a narrow fringing reef; depressed central area
Pacific Ocean 0 m
unnamed location 3 m
guano (deposits worked until late 1800s)
0
0
0
5
95
0
no natural fresh water resources
the narrow fringing reef surrounding the island can be a maritime hazard
NA
0
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
none
Howland Island
?
?
unincorporated territory of the US administered by the Fish and Wildlife Service of the US Department of the Interior as part of the National Wildlife Refuge System
none; administered from Washington, DC
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
#
?
#
?
?
#
?
#
?
the flag of the US is used
no economic activity
Transportation
#
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
none; offshore anchorage only; note - there is one boat landing area along the middle of the west coast
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
@Hungary
0
0$Budapest$4748$1908$2000000$
1$Debrecen$4756$2169$216000$
#
Tribes from the east, mainly Magyars, overran the earliest settlers in the
9th century AD. These were unified under Saint Stephen, the first Hungarian
king, at the start of the 11th century. Invading Turks were defeated with
the aid of Austria, who dominated the country from the end of the 17th
century until autonomy was gained in 1867 with the establishment of the dual
monarchy of Austria-Hungary. After defeat in 1918, Hungary lost territory to
Romania, Yugoslavia, and Czechoslovakia, and became a republic. It passed
under communist control in 1949. A popular uprising in 1956 was suppressed
by Soviet troops. Since 1968 there has been a move away from a central
planning system to a market-based economy. The National Assembly is a
single-chamber parliament with 352 members. 21 members are chosen as the
Presidential Council, which acts as a collective head of state. Real power,
however, rests with the only legal party, the Hungarian Workers Party, whose
organization matches that of the Communist Party in the Soviet Union.
Hungary is divided into 19 counties (MegyΘk) and 5 cities with county status.
#
H
Central Europe, northwest of Romania
93030
92340
2009
Austria 366 km, Croatia 329 km, Romania 443 km, Serbia and Montenegro 151 km (all with Serbia), Slovakia 515 km, Slovenia 102 km, Ukraine 103 km
mostly flat to rolling plains; hills and low mountains on the Slovakian border
Tisza River 78 m
Kekes 1,014 m
bauxite, coal, natural gas, fertile soils
51
6
13
18
12
1750
an early-1996 government study identified 179 areas that suffer from air pollution, 54 areas with polluted soil, and 32 areas with polluted underground water; the study estimated clean-up costs at $350 million, but the 1996 government budget allocates only about $7 million for this purpose
?
party to - Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Law of the Sea
10002541
18
907963
867536
68
3325529
3464588
14
538106
898819
-0.68
10.72
15.06
-2.48
1.05
1.05
0.96
0.60
0.91
12.30
69.02
64.23
74.04
1.51
Hungarian(s)
Hungarian
Hungarian 89.9%, Gypsy 4%, German 2.6%, Serb 2%, Slovak 0.8%, Romanian 0.7%
#
Roman Catholic 67.5%, Calvinist 20%, Lutheran 5%, atheist and other 7.5%
Independence: 1001 (unification by King Stephen I)
#
?
St. Stephen's Day (National Day), 20 August (commemorates the founding of Hungarian state circa 1000 AD)
18 August 1949, effective 20 August 1949, revised 19 April 1972; 18 October 1989 revision ensured legal rights for individuals and constitutional checks on the authority of the prime minister and also established the principle of parliamentary oversight
in process of revision, moving toward rule of law based on Western model
18 years of age; universal
President Arpad GONCZ (since 3 August 1990; previously interim president from 2 May 1990) was elected for a four-year term by the National Assembly; election last held 19 June 1995 (next to be held NA 1999); results - President GONCZ elected by parliamentary vote with a total of 259 votes out of 335
Prime Minister Gyula HORN (since 15 July 1994) was elected by the National Assembly on the recommendation of the president
#
Council of Ministers was elected by the National Assembly on recommendation of the president
#
unicameral
National Assembly (Orszaggyules): elections last held on 8 and 29 May 1994 (next to be held spring 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (386 total) MSzP 209, SzDSz 70, MDF 37, FKgP 26, KDNP 22, FiDeSz 20, other 2
#
Constitutional Court, judges are elected by the National Assembly
Hungarian Democratic Forum (MDF), Lajos FUR, chairman; Independent Smallholders (FKgP), Jozsef TORGYAN, president; Hungarian Socialist Party (MSzP), Gyula HORN, president; Christian Democratic People's Party (KDNP), Gyorgy GICZY, president; Federation of Young Democrats (FiDeSz), Viktor ORBAN, chairman; Alliance of Free Democrats (SzDSz), Ivan PETO, chairman
note: the Hungarian Socialist (Communist) Workers' Party (MSzMP) renounced Communism and became the Hungarian Socialist Party (MSzP) in October 1989; there is still a small MMP
three equal horizontal bands of red (top), white, and green
Hungary, probably the most Western-oriented economy in East Europe before the transition to a market system began in 1990, made good progress in the initial years of transition. The reform process slowed in 1993-94, however, in part because of the May 1994 elections and the resulting change in government. By 1994 the privatization of state firms had ground to a halt, while both the budget and current account deficits soared to unsustainable levels - about 8% and 10% of GDP, respectively. The situation improved sharply in 1995; an austerity program introduced in March reduced both deficits, and a renewed privatization effort later in 1995 resulted in more than $3 billion worth of sales of state firms to foreign investors - money that will be used to reduce Hungary's large foreign debt. As for other macroeconomic developments, real GDP increased 2.9% in 1994 - following several years of steep decline - and about 1.5% in 1995. Unemployment reached 14% in early 1993 before gradually falling back to 10% in 1995. Inflation has oscillated; it reached 40% in mid-1991, dropped to 17% in early 1994, and then jumped back to 31% by mid-1995. Prospects for 1996 are good. With the government still committed to austerity, both the budget and current account deficits should fall to about 4% of GDP. Economic growth is expected to be about 2% and unemployment at about 10%, with inflation falling to 20% by yearend. In March 1996 the IMF signed a new standby loan agreement with Budapest, and the OECD approved Hungary's application for admission.
#
1.50
4130
41310
7.30
37.50
55.20
28.30
4800000
services, trade, government, and other 47.2%, industry 29.7%, agriculture 16.1%, construction 7.0% (1991)
10.40
12600
13800
mining, metallurgy, construction materials, processed foods, textiles, chemicals (especially pharmaceuticals), motor vehicles
major transshipment point for Southwest Asian heroin and transit point for South American cocaine destined for Western Europe; limited producer of precursor chemicals
13000
raw materials and semi-finished goods 36.4%, consumer goods 26.7%, food and agriculture 20.5%, capital goods 13.1%, fuels and energy 3.3% (1994)
Germany 28.2%, Austria 10.9%, Italy 8.5%, Russia 7.5%, US 4.0% (1994)
15000
fuels and energy 11.0%, raw materials and semi-finished goods 36.9%, capital goods 23.3%, consumer goods 22.0%, food and agriculture 6.8% (1994)
Germany 23.4%, Austria 12.0%, Russia 12.0%, Italy 7.0%, UK 4.0% (1994)
32700.00
ODA, $136 million (1993)
?
1 forint (Ft) = 100 filler
144
calendar year
7685
35 km 1.524-m gauge
7,474 km 1.435-m gauge (2,162 km electrified; 1,236 km double track)
Ground Forces, Air and Air Defense Forces, Border Guard, Territorial Defense
#
2552794
2036399
82040
620000000
1.70
@Iceland
0
0$Reykjavφk$6413$-2193$115000$
#
Irish monks settled on the island of Iceland in the 8th century. The first
Norse colonists arrived towards the end of the 9th century. Iceland was a
republic from 930 until 1262, when it joined with Norway. It came under
Danish rule when the Danish king ascended the Norwegian throne in 1381. In
1918, Iceland became an independent kingdom. On 17 June 1944, it was
proclaimed an independent republic. Legislative power rests with the
Althing, the world's oldest surviving parliament. It has 60 members, elected
for 4 years. These are divided into an Upper House, of 20 members, and a
Lower House of 40. Executive power lies with the president and the cabinet,
made up of the prime-minister and other ministers appointed by the
president.
Iceland is divided into 7 districts and 23 counties.
#
IS
Northern Europe, island between the Greenland Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, northwest of the UK
103000
100250
?
?
4988
?
200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
200
?
12
Rockall continental shelf dispute involving Denmark, Ireland, and the UK (Ireland and the UK have signed a boundary agreement in the Rockall area)
temperate; moderated by North Atlantic Current; mild, windy winters; damp, cool summers
mostly plateau interspersed with mountain peaks, icefields; coast deeply indented by bays and fiords
Atlantic Ocean 0 m
Hvannadalshnukur 2,119 m
fish, hydropower, geothermal power, diatomite
1
0
20
1
78
?
water pollution from fertilizer runoff; inadequate wastewater treatment
earthquakes and volcanic activity
party to - Air Pollution, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Life Conservation
270292
24
33605
31933
64
88064
85724
12
13916
17050
0.83
16.94
6.17
-2.50
1.05
1.05
1.03
0.82
1.01
4.30
80.08
77.68
82.60
2.24
Icelander(s)
Icelandic
homogeneous mixture of descendants of Norwegians and Celts
#
Evangelical Lutheran 96%, other Protestant and Roman Catholic 3%, none 1% (1988)
Anniversary of the Establishment of the Republic, 17 June (1944)
16 June 1944, effective 17 June 1944
civil law system based on Danish law; does not accept compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
18 years of age; universal
President Vigdis FINNBOGADOTTIR (since 1 August 1980) was elected for a four-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 29 June 1988 (next to be held June 1996); results - there was no election in 1992 as President Vigdis FINNBOGADOTTIR was unopposed
Prime Minister David ODDSSON (since 30 April 1991) was appointed by the president
#
Cabinet was appointed by the president
#
unicameral
Parliament (Althing): elections last held on 8 April 1995 (next to be held by April 1999); results - Independence Party 37.1%, Progressive Party 23.3%, Social Democratic Party 11.4%, Socialists 14.3%, People's Movement 7.2%, Women's Party 4.9%; seats - (63 total) Independence 25, Progressive 15, Social Democratic 7, Socialists 9, People's Movement 4, Women's Party 3
#
Supreme Court (Haestirettur), justices are appointed for life by the president
Independence Party (conservative), David ODDSSON; Progressive Party (liberal), Halldor ASGRIMSSON; Social Democratic Party, Jon Baldvin HANNIBALSSON; People's Alliance (left socialist), Margret FRIMANNSDOTTIR; Women's Party, Kristin ASTGEIRSDOTTIR; People's Movement (centrist); National Awakening (People's Revival Party), Johanna SIGURDARDOTTIR
blue with a red cross outlined in white that extends to the edges of the flag; the vertical part of the cross is shifted to the hoist side in the style of the Dannebrog (Danish flag)
Iceland's Scandinavian-type economy is basically capitalistic, but with an extensive welfare system, low unemployment, and comparatively even distribution of income. The economy is heavily dependent on the fishing industry, which provides nearly 75% of export earnings and employs 12% of the work force. In the absence of other natural resources - except energy - Iceland's economy is vulnerable to changing world fish prices. The economy, in recession since 1988, began to recover in 1993, posting 0.4% growth, but was still hampered by cutbacks in fish quotas as well as falling world prices for its main exports: fish and fish products, aluminum, and ferrosilicon. The center-right government plans to continue its policies of reducing the budget and current account deficits, limiting foreign borrowing, containing inflation, revising agricultural and fishing policies, diversifying the economy, and privatizing state-owned industries. The government, however, remains divided on the issue of EU membership, primarily because of Icelanders' concern about losing control over their fishing resources.
#
3.20
24910
6733
9.60
22.10
68.30
2.50
127900
commerce, transportation, and services 60.0%, manufacturing 12.5%, fishing and fish processing 11.8%, construction 10.8%, agriculture 4.0%, other 0.9% (1990)
3.90
1900.00
2100
fish processing, aluminum smelting, ferrosilicon production, geothermal power
1.75
1.07
4700
16458
potatoes, turnips; cattle, sheep; fish catch of about 1.1 million metric tons in 1992
?
1600.00
fish and fish products, animal products, aluminum, ferrosilicon, diatomite
EC 68% (UK 25%, Germany 12%), US 11%, Japan 8% (1992)
1500
machinery and transportation equipment, petroleum products, foodstuffs, textiles
EC 53% (Germany 14%, Denmark 10%, UK 9%), Norway 14%, US 9% (1992)
the trunk network consists of coaxial and fiber-optic cables and microwave radio relay links
satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean), 1 Inmarsat (Atlantic and Indian Ocean Regions); note - Iceland shares the Inmarsat earth station with the other Nordic countries (Denmark, Finland, Norway, and Sweden)
5
147
0
91500
202
96100
no regular armed forces; Police, Coast Guard; note - Iceland's defense is provided by the US-manned Icelandic Defense Force (IDF) headquartered at Keflavik
#
71317
63126
?
?
?
@India
0
0$New Delhi$2880$7733$294000$
1$Delhi$2864$7728$8375000$
1$Calcutta$2260$8840$10916000$
1$Bombay$1892$7283$12571000$
1$Madras$1308$8030$5361000$
1$Bangalore$1298$7767$4086000$
1$Hyderabad$1717$7848$3297000$
1$Ahmadabad$2300$7267$3297000$
1$Kanpur$2643$8039$2410000$
1$Nagpur$2114$7917$1661000$
1$Jaipur$2690$7583$1514000$
1$Agra$2228$7797$955000$
1$Varanasi$2533$8300$1026000$
1$Indore$2269$7589$1086000$
1$Madurai$989$7811$1093000$
1$Jabalpur$2315$7997$887000$
1$Allahabad$2542$8197$802000$
3$K2$3590$7650$8611$
#
The civilization of the Indus Valley can be traced back over 5,000 years,
giving India one of the oldest civilizations in the world. The Indian
civilization of today was created when Aryan tribes invaded from the
north-west and merged with the earlier inhabitants, in about 1500 BC.
Operating as the East India Company, the British gained control of most of
India from the early 17th century. Under Indian pressure, led by Mohandas
(Mahatna) Ghandi, Britain gave India a constitution providing a bicameral
congress in 1935. India was partitioned into the dominions of India and
Pakistan. India gained independence on 15 August 1947 and became a
self-governing member of the Commonwealth and UN. On 26 January 1950, India
declared itself a democratic republic. The world's worst industrial accident
occurred on 3 December 1984, when over 2,500 people were killed by the
deadly gas, methyl isocyanate, which escaped from a Union Carbide factory in
Bophal. Parliament consists of two legislative house, the Council of States
(244 seats) and the House of the People (544 seats). The president is chosen
by representatives of the two houses for a term of 5 years.
India is divided into 25 states and 7 union territories.
#
IND
Southern Asia, bordering the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal, between Burma and Pakistan
3287590
2973190
14103
Bangladesh 4,053 km, Bhutan 605 km, Burma 1,463 km, China 3,380 km, Nepal 1,690 km, Pakistan 2,912 km
7000
24
200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
200
?
12
boundaries with Bangladesh and China in dispute; status of Kashmir with Pakistan; water-sharing problems with downstream riparians, Bangladesh over the Ganges and Pakistan over the Indus (Wular Barrage)
varies from tropical monsoon in south to temperate in north
upland plain (Deccan Plateau) in south, flat to rolling plain along the Ganges, deserts in west, Himalayas in north
Indian Ocean 0 m
Kanchenjunga 8,598 m
coal (fourth-largest reserves in the world), iron ore, manganese, mica, bauxite, titanium ore, chromite, natural gas, diamonds, petroleum, limestone
55
1
4
23
17
430390
deforestation; soil erosion; overgrazing; desertification; air pollution from industrial effluents and vehicle emissions; water pollution from raw sewage and runoff of agricultural pesticides; tap water is not potable throughout the country; huge and rapidly growing population is overstraining natural resources
droughts, flash floods, severe thunderstorms common; earthquakes
party to - Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Desertification
952107694
34
168030766
159283151
62
304805787
281311834
4
19148385
19527771
1.64
25.94
9.61
0.04
1.05
1.06
1.08
0.98
1.07
71.10
59.71
59.12
60.32
3.20
Indian(s)
Indian
Indo-Aryan 72%, Dravidian 25%, Mongoloid and other 3%
#
Hindu 80%, Muslim 14%, Christian 2.4%, Sikh 2%, Buddhist 0.7%, Jains 0.5%, other 0.4%
English enjoys associate status but is the most important language for national, political, and commercial communication, Hindi the national language and primary tongue of 30% of the people, Bengali (official), Telugu (official), Marathi (official), Tamil (official), Urdu (official), Gujarati (official), Malayalam (official), Kannada (official), Oriya (official), Punjabi (official), Assamese (official), Kashmiri (official), Sindhi (official), Sanskrit (official), Hindustani a popular variant of Hindu/Urdu, is spoken widely throughout northern India
52
65.50
37.70
Republic of India
India
?
?
federal republic
New Delhi
25 states and 7 union territories*; Andaman and Nicobar Islands*, Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Chandigarh*, Dadra and Nagar Haveli*, Daman and Diu*, Delhi*, Goa, Gujarat, Haryana, Himachel Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Karnataka, Kerala, Lakshadweep*, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Orissa, Pondicherry*, Punjab, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Tamil Nadu, Tripura, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal
Independence: 15 August 1947 (from UK)
#
?
Anniversary of the Proclamation of the Republic, 26 January (1950)
26 January 1950
based on English common law; limited judicial review of legislative acts; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with reservations
18 years of age; universal
President Shankar Dayal SHARMA (since 25 July 1992) was elected for a five-year term by an electoral college consisting of elected members of both houses of Parliament and the legislatures of the states; Vice President Kicheril Raman NARAYANAN (since 21 August 1992) was elected by both houses of Parliament
Prime Minister P. V. Narasimha RAO (since 21 June 1991) was appointed by the president
#
Council of Ministers was appointed by the president on recommendation of the prime minister
#
bicameral Parliament (Sansad)
Council of States (Rajya Sabha): body consisting of not more than 250 members, up to 12 appointed by the president, the remainder chosen by the elected members of the state and territorial assemblies
People's Assembly (Lok Sabha): elections last held 21 May, 12 and 15 June 1991 (next to be held 27 April through May 1996); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (545 total, 543 elected, 2 appointed) Congress (I) Party 245, BJP 119, Janata Dal Party 39, Janata Dal (Ajit Singh) 20, CPI/M 35, CPI 14, Telugu Desam 13, AIADMK 11, Samajwadi Janata Party 5, Shiv Sena 4, RSP 4, BSP 1, Congress (S) Party 1, other 23, vacant 9; note - the distribution of seats as of 18 January 1995 is as follows: Congress (I) Party 260, BJP 117, CPI/M 36, Janata Dal Party 24, Samata Party 14, CPI 14, AIADMK 12, Janata Dal (Ajit) 7, Telugu Desam 7, RSP 4, Janata Dal (Ex-Ajit) 3, Samajwadi Party 3, BSP 3, AIFB 3, Shiv Sena 2, Congress (S) Party 1, Kerala Congress (Mani faction) 1, Bihar Peoples Party 1, India National League 1, other 14, vacant 16
#
Supreme Court, judges are appointed by the president
Congress (I) Party, P. V. Narasimha RAO, president; Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), L.K. ADVANI; Janata Dal Party, Laloo Prasad YADAV; Janata Dal (Ajit), Ajit SINGH; Janata Dal (Ex-Ajit), leader NA; Communist Party of India/Marxist (CPI/M), Harkishan Singh SURJEET; Communist Party of India (CPI), Indrajit GUPTA; Telugu Desam (Naidu) (a regional party in Andhra Pradesh), Chandrababu NAIDU; All-India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazagham (AIADMK; a regional party in Tamil Nadu), Jayaram JAYALALITHA; Samajwadi Party (SP), Mulayam Singh YADAV (president), Om Prakash CHAUTALA, Devi LAL; Shiv Sena, Bal THACKERAY; Revolutionary Socialist Party (RSP), Tridip CHOWDHURY; Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), Kanshi RAM; Congress (S) Party, leader NA; Communist Party of India/Marxist-Leninist (CPI/ML), Vinod MISHRA; Dravida Munnetra Kazagham (a regional party in Tamil Nadu), M. KARUNANIDHI; Akali Dal factions representing Sikh religious community in the Punjab; National Conference (NC; a regional party in Jammu and Kashmir), Farooq ABDULLAH; Bihar Peoples Party, Lovely ANAND; Samata Party (formerly Janata Dal members), George FERNANDES; Indian National League, Suliaman SAIT; Kerala Congress (Mani faction), K.M. MANI; All India Forward Bloc (AIFB), Prem Dutta PALIWAL (chairman), Chitta BASU (general secretary); Congress (Tiwari), Arjun SINGH and N.D. TIWARI
#
various separatist groups seeking greater communal and/or regional autonomy; numerous religious or militant/chauvinistic organizations, including Adam Sena, Ananda Marg, Vishwa Hindu Parishad, and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh
three equal horizontal bands of orange (top), white, and green with a blue chakra (24-spoked wheel) centered in the white band; similar to the flag of Niger, which has a small orange disk centered in the white band
India's economy is a mixture of traditional village farming, modern agriculture, handicrafts, a wide range of modern industries, and a multitude of support services. Faster economic growth in the 1980s permitted a significant increase in real per capita private consumption. A large share of the population, perhaps as much as 40%, remains too poor to afford an adequate diet. Financial strains in 1990 and 1991 prompted government austerity measures that slowed industrial growth but permitted India to meet its international payment obligations without rescheduling its debt. Production, trade, and investment reforms since 1991 have provided new opportunities for Indian businessmen and an estimated 200 million plus middle class consumers. New Delhi has always paid its foreign debts on schedule and has stimulated exports, attracted foreign investment, and revived confidence in India's economic prospects. GDP growth in 1992-95 has averaged nearly 5%. Most of the country's external fundamentals - including the current account balance and reserves (now nearly $17 billion) are healthy. Party politics is increasingly shaping the debate over economic reforms. In addition, the 25 Indian states and several union territories, which are playing a more active role in determining economic policy, are further complicating the economic climate. The Indian Government will also have to watch closely rising government expenditures and higher debt servicing which could create a debt trap by the turn of the century. Nevertheless, India should achieve economic growth of 5.5%-6.5% annually through the next several years. Even if a weak coalition government comes to power in 1996 and is unable to push reforms aggressively, parts of the economy that have already benefited from deregulation will continue to grow. Moreover, the country can build on other strengths, including its diverse industrial base, large scientific and technical pool, well-developed legal system, and its large middle class to achieve higher growth.
rice, wheat, oilseed, cotton, jute, tea, sugarcane, potatoes; cattle, water buffalo, sheep, goats, poultry; fish catch of about 3 million metric tons ranks India among the world's top 10 fishing nations
licit producer of opium for the pharmaceutical trade, but an undetermined quantity of opium is diverted to illicit international drug markets; major transit country for illicit narcotics produced in neighboring countries; illicit producer of hashish and methaqualone; produced 70 metric tons of illicit opium in 1995
29960
clothing, gems and jewelry, engineering goods, chemicals, leather manufactures, cotton yarn, and fabric
US, Japan, Germany, UK, Hong Kong
33500
crude oil and petroleum products, machinery, gems, fertilizer, chemicals
US, Germany, Saudi Arabia, UK, Belgium, Japan
97900.00
ODA, $1.237 billion (1993); US ODA bilateral commitments $171 million; US Ex-Im bilateral commitments $680 million; Western (non-US) countries, ODA bilateral commitments $2.48 billion; OPEC bilateral aid $200 million; World Bank (IBRD) multilateral commitments $2.8 billion; Asian Development Bank (AsDB) multilateral commitments $760 million; International Finance Corporation (IFC) multilateral commitments $200 million; other multilateral commitments $554 million (1995-96)
?
1 Indian rupee (Re) = 100 paise
35.77
1 April - 31 March
62462
37,824 km 1.676-m gauge
20,653 km 1.000-m gauge; 3,985 km 0.762-m and 0.610-m gauge (1995 est.)
local service is provided mostly by open wire and obsolete electromechanical and manual switchboard systems; within the last 10 years a substantial amount of digital switch gear has been introduced for local service; long-distance traffic is carried mostly by open wire, coaxial cable, and low-capacity microwave radio relay; since 1985, however, significant trunk capacity has been added in the form of fiber-optic cable and a domestic satellite system with over 100 earth stations
satellite earth stations - 8 Intelsat (Indian Ocean) and 1 Inmarsat (Indian Ocean Region); submarine cables to Malaysia and UAE
96
4
0
70000000
274
33000000
Army, Navy, Air Force, various security or paramilitary forces (includes Border Security Force, Assam Rifles, and Coast Guard)
#
260624007
153176413
9770331
8000000000
2.70
@Indian Ocean
0
#
#
body of water between Africa, Antarctica, Asia, and Australia
73600000
?
?
?
66526
?
?
?
?
?
some maritime disputes (see littoral states)
northeast monsoon (December to April), southwest monsoon (June to October); tropical cyclones occur during May/June and October/November in the northern Indian Ocean and January/February in the southern Indian Ocean
surface dominated by counterclockwise gyre (broad, circular system of currents) in the southern Indian Ocean; unique reversal of surface currents in the northern Indian Ocean; low atmospheric pressure over southwest Asia from hot, rising, summer air results in the southwest monsoon and southwest-to-northeast winds and currents, while high pressure over northern Asia from cold, falling, winter air results in the northeast monsoon and northeast-to-southwest winds and currents; ocean floor is dominated by the Mid-Indian Ocean Ridge and subdivided by the Southeast Indian Ocean Ridge, Southwest Indian Ocean Ridge, and Ninety East Ridge
Java Trench -7,258 m
sea level 0 m
oil and gas fields, fish, shrimp, sand and gravel aggregates, placer deposits, polymetallic nodules
?
?
?
?
?
?
endangered marine species include the dugong, seals, turtles, and whales; oil pollution in the Arabian Sea, Persian Gulf, and Red Sea
ships subject to superstructure icing in extreme south near Antarctica from May to October
NA
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
#
?
#
?
?
#
?
#
?
?
The Indian Ocean provides major sea routes connecting the Middle East, Africa, and East Asia with Europe and the Americas. It carries a particularly heavy traffic of petroleum and petroleum products from the oilfields of the Persian Gulf and Indonesia. Its fish are of great and growing importance to the bordering countries for domestic consumption and export. Fishing fleets from Russia, Japan, Korea, and Taiwan also exploit the Indian Ocean, mainly for shrimp and tuna. Large reserves of hydrocarbons are being tapped in the offshore areas of Saudi Arabia, Iran, India, and western Australia. An estimated 40% of the world's offshore oil production comes from the Indian Ocean. Beach sands rich in heavy minerals and offshore placer deposits are actively exploited by bordering countries, particularly India, South Africa, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and Thailand.
Transportation
#
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
Calcutta (India), Colombo (Sri Lanka), Durban (South Africa), Jakarta (Indonesia), Madras (India), Melbourne (Australia), Mumbai (Bombay; India), Richard's Bay (South Africa)
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
submarine cables from India to UAE and Malaysia and from Sri Lanka to Djibouti and Indonesia
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
@Indonesia
0
0$Jakarta$-615$10682$7829000$
1$Surabaya$-725$11275$2345000$
1$Medan$358$9865$2110000$
1$Bandung$-660$10781$1613000$
1$Semarang$-697$11048$1269000$
1$Palembang$-298$10475$903000$
1$Ujung Pandang$-515$11948$888000$
3$Kinabalu$605$11653$4175$
#
With the exception of East Timor, Indonesia was formerly the Dutch East
Indies. The islands were occupied by the Japanese from 1942 until 1945. The
Republic of Indonesia was declared independent by a group of nationalists on
17 August 1945. After 4 years of fighting, the Dutch ceded sovereignty on 27
December 1949. West Irian, on New Guinea, remained under Dutch control. This
area was turned over to Indonesia by the UN in 1963. Constitutionally,
Indonesia is a presidential democracy. The president is chosen every 5 years
by the 920-member People's Consultative Assembly. 460 members of this
Assembly represent regional and functional groups, the other 460 being the
members of the parliament, the House of People's Representatives.
Indonesia is divided into 27 provinces and 282 regions.
#
RI
Southeastern Asia, archipelago between the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean
1919440
1826440
2602
Malaysia 1,782 km, Papua New Guinea 820 km
54716
?
?
200
?
12
sovereignty over Timor Timur (East Timor Province) disputed with Portugal and not recognized by the UN; two islands in dispute with Malaysia
tropical; hot, humid; more moderate in highlands
mostly coastal lowlands; larger islands have interior mountains
deforestation; water pollution from industrial wastes, sewage; air pollution in urban areas
occasional floods, severe droughts, and tsunamis
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Tropical Timber 94, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Marine Life Conservation
Muslim 87%, Protestant 6%, Roman Catholic 3%, Hindu 2%, Buddhist 1%, other 1% (1985)
Bahasa Indonesia (official, modified form of Malay), English, Dutch, local dialects the most widely spoken of which is Javanese
83.80
89.60
78
Republic of Indonesia
Indonesia
Republik Indonesia
Indonesia
republic
Jakarta
24 provinces (propinsi-propinsi, singular - propinsi), 2 special regions* (daerah-daerah istimewa, singular - daerah istimewa), and 1 special capital city district** (daerah khusus ibukota); Aceh*, Bali, Bengkulu, Irian Jaya, Jakarta Raya**, Jambi, Jawa Barat, Jawa Tengah, Jawa Timur, Kalimantan Barat, Kalimantan Selatan, Kalimantan Tengah, Kalimantan Timur, Lampung, Maluku, Nusa Tenggara Barat, Nusa Tenggara Timur, Riau, Sulawesi Selatan, Sulawesi Tengah, Sulawesi Tenggara, Sulawesi Utara, Sumatera Barat, Sumatera Selatan, Sumatera Utara, Timor Timur, Yogyakarta*
Independence: 17 August 1945 (proclaimed independence; on 27 December 1949, Indonesia became legally independent from the Netherlands)
#
?
Independence Day, 17 August (1945)
August 1945, abrogated by Federal Constitution of 1949 and Provisional Constitution of 1950, restored 5 July 1959
based on Roman-Dutch law, substantially modified by indigenous concepts and by new criminal procedures code; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
17 years of age; universal and married persons regardless of age
President Gen. (Ret.) SOEHARTO (since 27 March 1968) and Vice President Gen. (Ret.) Try SUTRISNO (since 11 March 1993) were elected for five-year terms by the People's Consultative Assembly
?
#
Cabinet
#
unicameral
House of Representatives (Dewan Perwakilan Rakyat or DPR): elections last held 8 June 1992 (next to be held NA 1997); results - GOLKAR 68%, PPP 17%, PDI 15%; seats - (500 total, 400 elected, 100 military representatives appointed) GOLKAR 282, PPP 62, PDI 56
note: the People's Consultative Assembly (Majelis Permusyawaratan Rakyat or MPR) includes the DPR plus 500 indirectly elected members who meet every five years to elect the president and vice president and, theoretically, to determine national policy
#
Supreme Court (Mahkamah Agung), the judges are appointed by the president
GOLKAR (quasi-official party based on functional groups), HARMOKO, general chairman; Indonesia Democracy Party (PDI - federation of former Nationalist and Christian Parties), Megawati SUKARNOPUTRI, chairman; Development Unity Party (PPP, federation of former Islamic parties), Ismail Hasan METAREUM, chairman
two equal horizontal bands of red (top) and white; similar to the flag of Monaco, which is shorter; also similar to the flag of Poland, which is white (top) and red
Indonesia is a mixed economy with some central planning but with an emphasis on rapid deregulation and private enterprise. Real GDP growth in 1985-95 averaged about 7%, quite impressive, but not sufficient to both slash underemployment and absorb the 2.3 million workers annually entering the labor force. Plantation crops - rubber and palm oil - and textiles and plywood are being encouraged for both export and job generation. Industrial output is based on a supply of diverse natural resources, including crude oil, natural gas, timber, metals, and coal. Foreign investment has also boosted manufacturing output and exports in recent years. Indeed, the economy's growth is highly dependent on the continuing expansion of nonoil exports. Japan remains Indonesia's most important customer and supplier of aid. Like some other rapidly developing countries in Southeast Asia, Indonesia is struggling to keep the economy from overheating.
#
7.50
980
202479
17
32.60
50.40
8.60
67000000
agriculture 55%, manufacturing 10%, construction 4%, transport and communications 3% (1985 est.)
3
38100.00
38100.00
petroleum and natural gas, textiles, mining, cement, chemical fertilizers, plywood, food, rubber
illicit producer of cannabis largely for domestic use; government actively eradicating plantings and prosecuting traffickers; minor role as transshipment point for Golden Triangle heroin
39900
manufactures 51.9%, fuels 26.4%, foodstuffs 12.7%, raw materials 9.0%
Japan 27.4%, US 14.6%, Singapore 10.1%, South Korea 6.5%, Taiwan 4.1%, Netherlands 3.3%, China 3.3%, Hong Kong 3.3%, Germany 3.2%
32000
manufactures 75.3%, raw materials 9.0%, foodstuffs 7.8%, fuels 7.7%
Japan 24.2%, US 11.2%, Germany 7.7%, South Korea 6.8%, Singapore 5.9%, Australia 4.8%, Taiwan 4.5%, China 4.3%
97600
ODA, $1.542 billion (1993)
?
Indonesian rupiah (Rp)
2306.30
1 April - 31 March
6458
5,961 km 1.067-m gauge (101 km electrified; 101 km double track); 497 km 0.750-m gauge (1995)
283516
125,051 km
158,465 km (1995 est.)
21579
2505
456
1703
Cilacap, Cirebon, Jakarta, Kupang, Palembang, Semarang, Surabaya, Ujungpandang
interisland microwave system and HF radio police net; domestic satellite communications system
satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Indian Ocean and 1 Pacific Ocean)
618
38
0
28100000
9
11500000
Army, Navy, Air Force, National Police
#
57222025
33702395
2280360
2700000000
1.40
@Iran
0
0$Teheran$3567$5143$12000000$
1$Mashad$3627$5957$1466000$
1$Ispahan$3268$5168$1000000$
1$Tabriz$3811$4633$994000$
1$ChirΓz$2969$5250$848000$
1$AhvΓz$3133$4867$589000$
1$Qum$3465$5094$550000$
#
Until 1935, Iran was known as Persia. The Medes and the Persians united in
549 BC to form the Persian Empire. Alexander the Great conquered Persia in
333 BC. Arabs brought Islam to Persia in the 7th century. Turks and Mongols
ruled from the 11th century until 1502, when a native dynasty reasserted
full independence. Afghanistan was severed from Iran by the British in 1857.
Conservative Moslem protests in the late 1970's led to the fall of the
government and the exile of Shah Reza Pahlavi. The Islamic Constitution of
1979 put an end to the monarchy, declaring Iran an Islamic Republic, and
vesting final authority in the Islamic spiritual leader (then the Ayatollah
Khomeini). War broke out with Iraq on 22 September 1980 over sovereignty of
the Shatt al-Arab waterway. Fighting continued until 1988. The political
upheavals, marked by a sometimes brutal fundamentalism, brought Iran to
almost total isolation from the rest of the world.
Iran is divided into 24 provinces.
#
IR
Middle East, bordering the Gulf of Oman, the Persian Gulf, and the Caspian Sea, between Iraq and Pakistan
1648000
1636000
5440
Afghanistan 936 km, Armenia 35 km, Azerbaijan-proper 432 km, Azerbaijan-Naxcivan exclave 179 km, Iraq 1,458 km, Pakistan 909 km, Turkey 499 km, Turkmenistan 992 km
2440
24
natural prolongation
?
?
12
Iran and Iraq restored diplomatic relations in 1990 but are still trying to work out written agreements settling outstanding disputes from their eight-year war concerning border demarcation, prisoners-of-war, and freedom of navigation and sovereignty over the Shatt al-Arab waterway; Iran occupies two islands in the Persian Gulf claimed by the UAE: Lesser Tunb (called Tunb as Sughra in Arabic by UAE and Jazireh-ye Tonb-e Kuchek in Persian by Iran) and Greater Tunb (called Tunb al Kubra in Arabic by UAE and Jazireh-ye Tonb-e Bozorg in Persian by Iran); it jointly administers with the UAE an island in the Persian Gulf claimed by the UAE (called Abu Musa in Arabic by UAE and Jazireh-ye Abu Musa in Persian by Iran); in 1992 the dispute over Abu Musa and the Tunb islands became more acute when Iran unilaterally tried to control the entry of third country nationals into the UAE portion of Abu Musa island, Tehran subsequently backed off in the face of significant diplomatic support for the UAE in the region, but in 1994 it increased its military presence on the disputed islands; periodic disputes with Afghanistan over Helmand water rights; Caspian Sea boundaries are not yet determined; support to clients in Afghanistan
mostly arid or semiarid, subtropical along Caspian coast
rugged, mountainous rim; high, central basin with deserts, mountains; small, discontinuous plains along both coasts
air pollution, especially in urban areas, from vehicle emissions, refinery operations, and industrial effluents; deforestation; overgrazing; desertification; oil pollution in the Persian Gulf; inadequate supplies of potable water
periodic droughts, floods; dust storms, sandstorms; earthquakes along the Western border
party to - Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Desertification, Environmental Modification, Law of the Sea, Marine Life Conservation
66094264
45
15166131
14289283
52
17326388
16731470
3
1327718
1253274
2.21
33.67
6.61
-5
1.05
1.06
1.04
1.06
1.05
52.70
67.39
66.12
68.72
4.72
Iranian(s)
Iranian
Persian 51%, Azerbaijani 24%, Gilaki and Mazandarani 8%, Kurd 7%, Arab 3%, Lur 2%, Baloch 2%, Turkmen 2%, other 1%
#
Shi'a Muslim 89%, Sunni Muslim 10%, Zoroastrian, Jewish, Christian, and Baha'i 1%
Persian and Persian dialects 58%, Turkic and Turkic dialects 26%, Kurdish 9%, Luri 2%, Baloch 1%, Arabic 1%, Turkish 1%, other 2%
72.10
78.40
65.80
Islamic Republic of Iran
Iran
Jomhuri-ye Eslami-ye Iran
Iran
theocratic republic
Tehran
25 provinces (ostanha, singular - ostan); Ardabil, Azarbayjan-e Gharbi, Azarbayjan-e Sharqi, Bushehr, Chahar Mahall va Bakhtiari, Esfahan, Fars, Gilan, Hamadan, Hormozgan, Ilam, Kerman, Kermanshahan, Khorasan, Khuzestan, Kohkiluyeh va Buyer Ahmadi, Kordestan, Lorestan, Markazi, Mazandaran, Semnan, Sistan va Baluchestan, Tehran, Yazd, Zanjan
Independence: 1 April 1979 (Islamic Republic of Iran proclaimed)
#
?
Islamic Republic Day, 1 April (1979)
2-3 December 1979; revised 1989 to expand powers of the presidency and eliminate the prime ministership
the Constitution codifies Islamic principles of government
15 years of age; universal
Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Ali Hoseini-KHAMENEI (since 4 June 1989) was appointed for life by Council of Experts
President Ali Akbar Hashemi-RAFSANJANI (since 3 August 1989) was elected for a four-year term by universal suffrage; First Vice President Hasan Ebrahim HABIBI (since NA August 1989); election last held 11 June 1993 (next to be held NA May 1997); results - Ali Akbar Hashemi-RAFSANJANI was elected with 63% of the vote
#
Council of Ministers was selected by the president with legislative approval
#
unicameral
Islamic Consultative Assembly (Majles-e-Shura-ye-Eslami): elections last held 8 March and 19 April 1996 (next to be held NA March 2000); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (270 seats total) number of seats by party NA
#
Supreme Court
there are at least 76 licensed parties, none are, as yet, openly active; the most important groupings are - Tehran Militant Clergy Association, leader NA; Militant Clerics Association, Mehdi MAHDAVI-KARUBI and Mohammad Asqar MUSAVI-KHOINIHA; Servants of Reconstruction (G-6), leader NA
#
groups that generally support the Islamic Republic include Ansar-e Hizballah, Mojahedin of the Islamic Revolution, Muslim Students Following the Line of the Imam, and the Islamic Coalition Association; opposition groups include the Liberation Movement of Iran and the Nation of Iran party; armed political groups that have been almost completely repressed by the government include Mojahedin-e Khalq Organization (MEK), People's Fedayeen, Kurdish Democratic Party of Iran; the Society for the Defense of Freedom
three equal horizontal bands of green (top), white, and red; the national emblem (a stylized representation of the word Allah) in red is centered in the white band; ALLAH AKBAR (God is Great) in white Arabic script is repeated 11 times along the bottom edge of the green band and 11 times along the top edge of the red band
Iran's economy is a mixture of central planning, state ownership of oil and other large enterprises, village agriculture, and small-scale private trading and service ventures. Over the past several years, the government has introduced several measures to liberalize the economy and reduce government intervention, but most of these changes have moved slowly or have been reversed because of political opposition. Iran has faced increasingly severe financial difficulties since mid-1992 due to an import surge that began in 1989 and general financial mismanagement. At yearend 1993 the Iranian Government estimated that it owed foreign creditors about $30 billion; an estimated $8 billion of this debt was in arrears. At yearend 1994, Iran rescheduled $12 billion in debt. Earnings from oil exports - which provide 85% of Iran's export revenues - are providing less relief to Iran than usual because of reduced oil prices. Iran's financial situation will remain tight in 1996 because the bulk of payments due under its rescheduling agreements in 1993-94 will be coming due.
#
-2
1820
120292
21
37
42
60
15400000
agriculture 33%, manufacturing 21%
30
?
?
petroleum, petrochemicals, textiles, cement and other construction materials, food processing (particularly sugar refining and vegetable oil production), metal fabricating, armaments
illicit producer of opium poppy for the domestic and international drug trade; produced 35-70 metric tons in 1993; net opiate importer but also a key transshipment point for Southwest Asian heroin to Europe
microwave radio relay extends throughout country; system centered in Tehran
satellite earth stations - 3 Intelsat (2 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean) and 1 Inmarsat (Indian Ocean Region); HF radio and microwave radio relay to Turkey, Pakistan, Syria, Kuwait, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan; submarine fiber-optic cable to UAE
77
3
0
14300000
28
3900000
Islamic Republic of Iran regular forces (includes Ground Forces, Navy, Air and Air Defense Forces), Revolutionary Guards (includes Ground, Air, Navy, Qods, and Basij-mobilization-forces), Law Enforcement Forces
#
15157796
9010648
632602
?
?
@Iraq
0
0$Bagdad$3333$4450$3844000$
1$Basra$3050$4783$616000$
1$Mossoul$3635$4314$571000$
1$Kirk√k$3650$4435$500000$
#
The Tigris-Euphrates valley, formerly called Mesopotamia, was the site of
one of the earliest civilizations in the world. Sumerian city-states existed
around 3,000 BC. A vast empire was ruled from Baghdad in the 8th and 9th
centuries. A general decline followed conquests by Mongols and Turks. Iraq
became a British mandate in 1920. Independence was gained in 1932, and the
republic was declared in 1958. War broke out with Iran on 22 September 1980
over sovereignty of the Shatt al-Arab waterway. Fighting continued until
1988. On 2 August 1990, Iraq invaded Kuwait. On 29 August, it declared
Kuwait to be the 19th province of Iraq. Almost all power is in the hands of
the president (Sadam Hussein). He, together with the vice-president, the
general-secretary, and 6 other members, form the Revolutionary Council.
There is also a largely symbolic parliament of 250 members.
Iraq is divided into 18 provinces, each having a governor.
#
IRQ
Middle East, bordering the Persian Gulf, between Iran and Kuwait
437072
432162
3631
Iran 1,458 km, Jordan 181 km, Kuwait 242 km, Saudi Arabia 814 km, Syria 605 km, Turkey 331 km
58
?
not specified
?
?
12
Iran and Iraq restored diplomatic relations in 1990 but are still trying to work out written agreements settling outstanding disputes from their eight-year war concerning border demarcation, prisoners-of-war, and freedom of navigation and sovereignty over the Shatt al Arab waterway; in November 1994, Iraq formally accepted the UN-demarcated border with Kuwait which had been spelled out in Security Council Resolutions 687 (1991), 773 (1993), and 883 (1993); this formally ends earlier claims to Kuwait and to Bubiyan and Warbah islands; dispute over water development plans by Turkey for the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers
mostly desert; mild to cool winters with dry, hot, cloudless summers; northern mountainous regions along Iranian and Turkish borders experience cold winters with occasionally heavy snows which melt in early spring, sometimes causing extensive flooding in central and southern Iraq
mostly broad plains; reedy marshes along Iranian border in south; mountains along borders with Iran and Turkey
Persian Gulf 0 m
Gundah Zhur 3,608 m
petroleum, natural gas, phosphates, sulfur
12
1
9
3
75
25500
government water control projects have drained most of the inhabited marsh areas east of An Nasiriyah by drying up or diverting the feeder streams and rivers; a once sizable population of Shi'a Muslims, who have inhabited these areas for thousands of years, has been displaced; furthermore, the destruction of the natural habitat poses serious threats to the area's wildlife populations; inadequate supplies of potable water; development of Tigris-Euphrates Rivers system contingent upon agreements with upstream riparian Turkey; air and water pollution; soil degradation (salinization) and erosion; desertification
dust storms, sandstorms, floods
party to - Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban; signed, but not ratified - Environmental Modification
21422292
48
5179240
5014141
49
5342529
5228802
3
307097
350483
3.69
43.07
6.57
0.37
1.05
1.03
1.02
0.88
1.02
60
66.95
65.92
68.03
6.41
Iraqi(s)
Iraqi
Arab 75%-80%, Kurdish 15%-20%, Turkoman, Assyrian or other 5%
#
Muslim 97% (Shi'a 60%-65%, Sunni 32%-37%), Christian or other 3%
Arabic, Kurdish (official in Kurdish regions), Assyrian, Armenian
58
70.70
45
Republic of Iraq
Iraq
Al Jumhuriyah al Iraqiyah
Al Iraq
republic
Baghdad
18 provinces (muhafazat, singular - muhafazah); Al Anbar, Al Basrah, Al Muthanna, Al Qadisiyah, An Najaf, Arbil, As Sulaymaniyah, At Ta'mim, Babil, Baghdad, Dahuk, Dhi Qar, Diyala, Karbala', Maysan, Ninawa, Salah ad Din, Wasit
Independence: 3 October 1932 (from League of Nations mandate under British administration)
#
?
Anniversary of the Revolution, 17 July (1968)
22 September 1968, effective 16 July 1970 (provisional Constitution); new constitution drafted in 1990 but not adopted
based on Islamic law in special religious courts, civil law system elsewhere; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
18 years of age; universal
President SADDAM Husayn (since 16 July 1979); Vice President Taha Muhyi al-Din MARUF (since 21 April 1974); Vice President Taha Yasin RAMADAN (since 23 March 1991) were elected by a two-thirds majority of the Revolutionary Command Council
Prime Minister SADDAM Husayn (since NA May 1994); Deputy Prime Minister Tariq Mikhail AZIZ (since NA 1979)
National Assembly (Majlis al-Watani): elections last held 24 March 1996 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote NA; seats - (250 total, 30 appointed by SADDAM Husayn to represent three northern provonces of Dahuk, Arbil, and As Sulaymaniyah)
note: in northern Iraq, a "Kurdish Assembly" was elected in May 1992 and calls for Kurdish self-determination within a federated Iraq; the assembly is not recognized by the Baghdad government
#
Court of Cassation
Ba'th Party, SADDAM Husayn, central party leader
#
political parties and activity severely restricted; opposition to regime from disaffected members of the Ba'th Party, Army officers, tribes, and Shi'a religious and ethnic Kurdish dissidents; the Green Party (government-controlled)
three equal horizontal bands of red (top), white, and black with three green five-pointed stars in a horizontal line centered in the white band; the phrase ALLAHU AKBAR (God is Great) in green Arabic script - Allahu to the right of the middle star and Akbar to the left of the middle star - was added in January 1991 during the Persian Gulf crisis; similar to the flag of Syria that has two stars but no script and the flag of Yemen that has a plain white band; also similar to the flag of Egypt that has a symbolic eagle centered in the white band
The Ba'thist regime engages in extensive central planning and management of industrial production and foreign trade while leaving some small-scale industry and services and most agriculture to private enterprise. The economy has been dominated by the oil sector, which has traditionally provided about 95% of foreign exchange earnings. In the 1980s, financial problems caused by massive expenditures in the eight-year war with Iran and damage to oil export facilities by Iran, led the government to implement austerity measures and to borrow heavily and later reschedule foreign debt payments; Iraq suffered economic losses of at least $100 billion from the war. After the end of hostilities in 1988, oil exports gradually increased with the construction of new pipelines and restoration of damaged facilities. Agricultural development remained hampered by labor shortages, salinization, and dislocations caused by previous land reform and collectivization programs. The industrial sector, although accorded high priority by the government, also was under financial constraints. Iraq's seizure of Kuwait in August 1990, subsequent international economic embargoes, and military action by an international coalition beginning in January 1991 drastically changed the economic picture. Industrial and transportation facilities, which suffered severe damage, have been partially restored. Oil exports remain at less than 5% of the previous level. Shortages of spare parts continue. Living standards deteriorated even further in 1994 and 1995; consumer prices have more than doubled in both 1994 and 1995. The UN-sponsored economic embargo has reduced exports and imports and has contributed to the sharp rise in prices. The Iraqi Government has been unwilling to abide by UN resolutions so that the economic embargo can be removed. The government's policies of supporting large military and internal security forces and of allocating resources to key supporters of the regime have exacerbated shortages. In brief, per capita output f
or 1994-95 is well below the 1989-90 level, but any estimate has a wide range of error.
#
?
1200
25707
?
?
?
?
4400000
services 48%, agriculture 30%, industry 22%
?
?
?
petroleum, chemicals, textiles, construction materials, food processing
?
7.17
25700.00
1247
wheat, barley, rice, vegetables, dates, other fruit, cotton; cattle, sheep
?
?
crude oil and refined products, fertilizer, sulfur
the network consists of coaxial cables and microwave radio relay links
satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean), 1 Intersputnik (Atlantic Ocean Region) and 1 Arabsat; coaxial cable and microwave radio relay to Jordan, Kuwait, Syria, and Turkey; Kuwait line is probably nonoperational
16
1
0
4020000.00
13
1000000
Army, Republican Guard and Special Republican Guard, Navy, Air Force, Air Defense Force, Border Guard Force, Internal Security Forces
#
4832001
2711312
237843
?
?
@Ireland
0
0$Dublin$5333$-630$478000$
#
Ireland has been inhabited since neolithic times (6000 BC). Celts invaded
about the 4th century BC. Since English invasions started in the 12th
century AD, the Anglo-Irish struggle has continued. After many armed
conflicts, peace was signed in December 1921, giving dominion status to
Ulster in the north and the 26 counties of southern Ireland. The
constitution of the Irish Free State was adopted on 11 December 1922.
Northern Ireland remained part of the UK. A new constitution in 1937
declared Ireland a sovereign democratic state, and gave it the name Eire (in
Irish, Ireland in English). In December 1948 the country was declared a
republic and was withdrawn from the Commonwealth. Ireland became a member of
the EC in 1973. The head of state is the president, chosen by general
election for a term of 7 years. Legislative power lies with the bicameral
parliament. The House of Representatives has 166 members, elected every 5
years; the Senate has 60 members, of which 6 are elected by the
universities, 43 by social groups, and 11 by the president. Executive power
rests with the government, led by the prime-minister and a cabinet of
minimum 7 and maximum 15 ministers.
Ireland is divided into 26 counties.
#
IRL
Western Europe, occupying five-sixths of the island of Ireland in the North Atlantic Ocean, west of Great Britain
70280
68890
360
UK 360 km
1448
?
not specified
?
200
12
Northern Ireland question with the UK; Rockall continental shelf dispute involving Denmark, Iceland, and the UK (Ireland and the UK have signed a boundary agreement in the Rockall area)
temperate maritime; modified by North Atlantic Current; mild winters, cool summers; consistently humid; overcast about half the time
mostly level to rolling interior plain surrounded by rugged hills and low mountains; sea cliffs on west coast
water pollution, especially of lakes, from agricultural runoff
NA
party to - Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Climate Change, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Biodiversity, Desertification, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Marine Life Conservation
29 December 1937; adopted 1 July 1937 by plebiscite
based on English common law, substantially modified by indigenous concepts; judicial review of legislative acts in Supreme Court; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
18 years of age; universal
President Mary Bourke ROBINSON (since 9 November 1990) was elected for a seven-year term by popular vote; election last held 9 November 1990 (next to be held NA November 1997); results - Mary Bourke ROBINSON 52.8%, Brian LENIHAN 47.2%
Prime Minister John BRUTON (since 15 December 1994) was nominated by the House of Representatives and appointed by the president
#
Cabinet was appointed by president with previous nomination of the prime minister and approval of the House of Representatives
#
bicameral Parliament (Oireachtas)
Senate (Seanad Eireann): elections last held NA February 1992 (next to be held NA February 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (60 total, 49 elected) Fianna Fail 26, Fine Gael 16, Labor 9, Progressive Democrats 2, Democratic Left 1, independents 6
House of Representatives (Dail Eireann): elections last held 25 November 1992 (next to be held by NA November 1997); results - Fianna Fail 39.1%, Fine Gael 24.5%, Labor Party 19.3%, Progressive Democrats 4.7%, Democratic Left 2.8%, Sinn Fein 1.6%, Workers' Party 0.7%, independents 5.9%; seats - (166 total) Fianna Fail 68, Fine Gael 45, Labor Party 33, Progressive Democrats 10, Democratic Left 4, Greens 1, independents 5
#
Supreme Court, judges appointed by the president on the advice of the government (prime minister and cabinet)
Democratic Left, Proinsias DE ROSSA; Fianna Fail, Bertie AHERN; Labor Party, Richard SPRING; Fine Gael, John BRUTON; Communist Party of Ireland, Michael O'RIORDAN; Sinn Fein, Gerry ADAMS; Progressive Democrats, Mary HARNEY; The Workers' Party, Marion DONNELLY; Green Alliance, Bronwen MAHER
note: Prime Minister BRUTON heads a three-party coalition consisting of the Fine Gael, the Labor Party, and the Democratic Left
three equal vertical bands of green (hoist side), white, and orange; similar to the flag of Cote d'Ivoire, which is shorter and has the colors reversed - orange (hoist side), white, and green; also similar to the flag of Italy, which is shorter and has colors of green (hoist side), white, and red
The economy is small and trade dependent. Agriculture, once the most important sector, is now dwarfed by industry, which accounts for 38% of GDP, about 80% of exports, and employs 28% of the labor force. Although exports remain the primary engine for Ireland's robust growth, the economy is also benefiting from a rise in consumer spending and recovery in both construction and business investment. Ireland has substantially reduced its external debt since 1987, to 40% of GDP in 1994. Over the same period, inflation has fallen sharply and chronic trade deficits have been transformed into annual surpluses. Unemployment remains a serious problem, however, and job creation is the main focus of government policy. To ease unemployment, Dublin aggressively courts foreign investors and recently created a new industrial development agency to aid small indigenous firms. Government assistance is constrained by Dublin's continuing deficit reduction measures.
#
7
15050
53681
6.80
35.30
57.90
2.80
1370000
services 57.0%, manufacturing and construction 28%, agriculture, forestry, and fishing 13.5%, energy and mining 1.5% (1992)
satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean)
9
45
0
2200000
86
1025000.00
Army (includes Naval Service and Air Corps), National Police (Garda Siochana)
#
939237
761048
35904
618000000
1.30
@Israel
0
0$Jerusalem$3178$3522$557000$
1$Tel-Aviv-Jaffa$3207$3481$400000$
1$Ha∩fa$3277$3500$250000$
#
Palestine, of which Israel is a part, was once under the Ottoman Empire. It
was occupied in 1917 Britain, which pledged to support a Jewish national
homeland there. In 1921, the land east of the Jordan was detached. Jewish
immigration, primarily from eastern Europe increased. The Jews bought land
and established kibbutzes. Opposition by indigenous Arabs turned violent in
1920, 1921, 1929, and 1936. After the Second World War, the number of Jewish
immigrants exploded. In 1947 the UN voted to partition the country into a
Jewish and an Arab Palestine. On 14 May 1948 Israel was declared an
independent state. The Arabs rejected the partition and forces of Egypt,
Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia invaded. Armistices were
signed in 1949, but no peace settlement was reached. After Israeli forces
invaded Egypt's Sinai in 1956, a UN supervised truce prevailed until 1967.
UN forces then withdrew and Egypt invaded the Gaza Strip. The 6-day war,
from 5 until 10 June was halted by a UN-arranged cease-fire. Israel's
territorial gains included the Gaza Strip, Old Jerusalem and the Sinai
Peninsula. The Sinai was returned to Egypt in 1982. At the centre of Israeli
politics is the Knesset, a 120-member legislative body. General elections
are held every 4 years. The Knesset chooses a president for a 5 year term.
Executive power rests with the prime-minister and his cabinet.
Israel is divided into 6 administrative districts.
#
IL
Middle East, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Egypt and Lebanon
20770
20330
1006
Egypt 255 km, Gaza Strip 51 km, Jordan 238 km, Lebanon 79 km, Syria 76 km, West Bank 307 km
273
?
to depth of exploitation
?
?
12
West Bank and Gaza Strip are Israeli occupied with current status subject to the Israeli-Palestinian Interim Agreement - permanent status to be determined through further negotiation; Golan Heights is Israeli occupied; Israeli troops in southern Lebanon since June 1982
temperate; hot and dry in southern and eastern desert areas
Negev desert in the south; low coastal plain; central mountains; Jordan Rift Valley
Dead Sea -408 m
Har Meron 1,208 m
copper, phosphates, bromide, potash, clay, sand, sulfur, asphalt, manganese, small amounts of natural gas and crude oil
17
5
40
6
32
2140
limited arable land and natural fresh water resources pose serious constraints; desertification; air pollution from industrial and vehicle emissions; groundwater pollution from industrial and domestic waste, chemical fertilizers, and pesticides
sandstorms may occur during spring and summer
party to - Biodiversity, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution; signed, but not ratified - Climate Change, Desertification, Marine Life Conservation
Independence: 14 May 1948 (from League of Nations mandate under British administration)
#
?
Independence Day, 14 May 1948 (Israel declared independence on 14 May 1948, but the Jewish calendar is lunar and the holiday may occur in April or May)
no formal constitution; some of the functions of a constitution are filled by the Declaration of Establishment (1948), the basic laws of the parliament (Knesset), and the Israeli citizenship law
mixture of English common law, British Mandate regulations, and, in personal matters, Jewish, Christian, and Muslim legal systems; in December 1985, Israel informed the UN Secretariat that it would no longer accept compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
18 years of age; universal
President Ezer WEIZMAN (since 13 May 1993) was elected for a five-year term by the Knesset; election last held 24 March 1993 (next to be held NA March 1998); results - Ezer WEIZMAN elected by Knesset
Prime Minister Shimon PERES (since 15 November 1995) was appointed by the president following the assassination of Prime Minister Yitzhak RABIN
#
Cabinet was selected from and approved by the Knesset
#
unicameral
parliament (Knesset): elections last held NA June 1992 (next to be held 29 May 1996); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (120 total) Labor 44, Likud 32, MERETZ 12, Tzomet 8, National Religious Party 6, SHAS 6, United Torah Jewry 4, Democratic Front for Peace and Equality (Hadash) 3, Moledet 3, Arab Democratic Party 2; note - the distribution of seats as of January 1996 is as follows - Labor Party 45, Likud bloc 33, MERETZ 12, National Religious Party 6, SHAS 6, Tzomet 5, United Torah Jewry 4, Democratic Front for Peace and Equality (Hadash) 3, Moledet 2, Arab Democratic Party 2, Yi'ud 1 (in coalition), Right of Israel 1
#
Supreme Court
members of the government: Labor Party, Prime Minister Shimon PERES; MERETZ, Minister of Environment Yossi SARID; Yi'ud, Gonen SEGEV
not in coalition, but voting with the government: Democratic Front for Peace and Equality (Hadash), Hashim MAHAMID; Arab Democratic Party, Abd al Wahab DARAWSHAH
opposition parties: Likud Party, Binyamin NETANYAHU; Tzomet, Rafael EITAN; National Religious Party, Zevulun HAMMER; United Torah Jewry, Avraham SHAPIRA; Moledet, Rehavam ZEEVI; Peace Guard (independent), Shaul GUTMAN; SHAS, Arieh DERI; Right of Israel, leader NA
note: Israel currently has a coalition government comprising three parties that hold 58 seats of the Knesset's 120 seats
#
Gush Emunim, Israeli nationalists advocating Jewish settlement on the West Bank and Gaza Strip; Peace Now supports territorial concessions in the West Bank and is critical of government's Lebanon policy
white with a blue hexagram (six-pointed linear star) known as the Magen David (Shield of David) centered between two equal horizontal blue bands near the top and bottom edges of the flag
Israel has a market economy with substantial government participation. It depends on imports of crude oil, grains, raw materials, and military equipment. Despite limited natural resources, Israel has intensively developed its agricultural and industrial sectors over the past 20 years. Industry employs about 22% of Israeli workers, agriculture, forestry, and fishing 3.5%, and services the rest. Israel is largely self-sufficient in food production except for grains. Diamonds, high-technology equipment, and agricultural products (fruits and vegetables) are leading exports. Israel usually posts current account deficits, which are covered by large transfer payments from abroad and by foreign loans. Roughly half of the government's external debt is owed to the US, which is its major source of economic and military aid. To earn needed foreign exchange, Israel has been targeting high-technology niches in international markets, such as medical scanning equipment. The influx of Jewish immigrants from the former USSR, which topped 525,000 during the period 1990-95, increased unemployment, intensified housing problems, and strained the government budget. At the same time, the immigrants bring to the economy valuable scientific and professional expertise.
#
7.10
15920
86318
3.50
22
74.50
10.10
1900000
public services 29.3%, industry 22.1%, commerce 13.9%, finance and business 10.4%, personal and other services 7.4%, construction 6.5%, transport, storage, and communications 6.3%, agriculture, forestry, and fishing 3.5%, other 0.6% (1992)
6.30
41000
53000
food processing, diamond cutting and polishing, textiles and apparel, chemicals, metal products, military equipment, transport equipment, electrical equipment, potash mining, high-technology electronics, tourism
10.30
4.14
23000
4290
citrus and other fruits, vegetables, cotton; beef, poultry, dairy products
increasingly concerned about cocaine and heroin abuse and trafficking
28400
machinery and equipment, cut diamonds, chemicals, textiles and apparel, agricultural products, metals
US, EU, Japan
40100
military equipment, investment goods, rough diamonds, oil, other productive inputs, consumer goods
EU, US, Japan
18500
total receipts $12.14 billion of which $11.38 billion from the US (1990-93)
?
1 new Israeli shekel (NIS) = 100 new agorot
3.13
calendar year (since 1 January 1992)
526
526 km 1.435-m gauge
13461
13,461 km (including 56 km of expressways)
0 km (1992 est.)
?
708
290
89
Ashdod, Ashqelon, Elat, Hadera, Haifa, Tel Aviv-Yafo
good system of coaxial cable and microwave radio relay
3 submarine cables; satellite earth stations - 3 Intelsat (2 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean)
9
45
0
2250000
20
1500000
Israel Defense Forces (includes ground, naval, and air components), Pioneer Fighting Youth (Nahal), Frontier Guard, Chen (women); note - historically there have been no separate Israeli military services
#
1390603
1139137
50508
9200000000
9.80
@Italy
0
0$Roma$4190$1250$2693000$
1$Milano$4547$917$1371000$
1$Napoli$4083$1425$1054000$
1$Torino$4505$767$961000$
1$Palermo$3814$1330$697000$
1$Genova$4440$893$675000$
1$Bologna$4450$1133$404000$
1$Firenze$4378$1125$402000$
1$Catania$3752$1507$330000$
1$Bari$4110$1686$353000$
1$Venezia$4545$1233$308000$
1$Messina$3822$1555$274000$
1$Verona$4545$1100$258000$
#
The earliest known inhabitants of Italy date from the Bronze Age, about 1000
BC. After 500 BC, Rome emerged as a major power, building a vast Empire,
which lasted until 5 AD. The country remained ununified, however, until
1861, when the first Italian parliament declared Victor Emmanuel king of
Italy. Benito Mussolini led Italy to fascism. He took over the government in
1922, made war with Ethiopia and proclaimed Victor Emmanuel II emperor.
Fascism was overthrown in 1943. On 9 May 1946 Victor Emmanuel abdicated.
Italy became a republic on 10 June, following a referendum. Italy was a
founder-member of the EC in 1957. The constitution dates from 1 January
1948. The president is head of state. He is chosen by members of the two
parliamentary chambers and 58 regional representatives for a term of 7
years. Legislative power rests with parliament, consisting of two chambers:
the House of Representatives, with 630 members, and the Senate with 31 5
regional representatives and 7 life-long members. Election is by
proportional representation every 5 years. Executive power is in the hands
of the prime-minister and his council of ministers.
There are 20 regions in Italy, each with some degree of autonomy.
#
I
Southern Europe, a peninsula extending into the central Mediterranean Sea, northeast of Tunisia
301230
294020
1935.20
Austria 430 km, France 488 km, Holy See (Vatican City) 3.2 km, San Marino 39 km, Slovenia 235 km, Switzerland 740 km
7600
?
200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
?
?
12
Italy is negotiating with Slovenia over property and minority rights issues dating from World War II
predominantly Mediterranean; Alpine in far north; hot, dry in south
mostly rugged and mountainous; some plains, coastal lowlands
Mediterranean Sea 0 m
Mont Blanc de Courmayeur 4,765 m
mercury, potash, marble, sulfur, dwindling natural gas and crude oil reserves, fish, coal
32
10
17
22
19
31000
air pollution from industrial emissions such as sulfur dioxide; coastal and inland rivers polluted from industrial and agricultural effluents; acid rain damaging lakes; inadequate industrial waste treatment and disposal facilities
regional risks include landslides, mudflows, avalanches, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, flooding; land subsidence in Venice
party to - Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Desertification
57460274
15
4419636
4167860
68
19656546
19629291
17
3902426
5684515
0.13
9.87
9.82
1.25
1.06
1.06
1
0.69
0.95
6.90
78.06
74.85
81.48
1.27
Italian(s)
Italian
Italian (includes small clusters of German-, French-, and Slovene-Italians in the north and Albanian-Italians and Greek-Italians in the south), Sicilians, Sardinians
#
Roman Catholic 98%, other 2%
Italian, German (parts of Trentino-Alto Adige region are predominantly German speaking), French (small French-speaking minority in Valle d'Aosta region), Slovene (Slovene-speaking minority in the Trieste-Gorizia area)
97
98
96
Italian Republic
Italy
Repubblica Italiana
Italia
republic
Rome
20 regions (regioni, singular - regione); Abruzzi, Basilicata, Calabria, Campania, Emilia-Romagna, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Lazio, Liguria, Lombardia, Marche, Molise, Piemonte, Puglia, Sardegna, Sicilia, Toscana, Trentino-Alto Adige, Umbria, Valle d'Aosta, Veneto
Independence: 17 March 1861 (Kingdom of Italy proclaimed)
#
?
Anniversary of the Republic, 2 June (1946)
1 January 1948
based on civil law system, with ecclesiastical law influence; appeals treated as trials de novo; judicial review under certain conditions in Constitutional Court; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
18 years of age; universal (except in senatorial elections, where minimum age is 25)
President Oscar Luigi SCALFARO (since 28 May 1992) was elected for a seven-year term by an electoral college consisting of both houses of Parliament and 58 regional representatives
Prime Minister (referred to in Italy as the President of the Council of Ministers) Romano PRODI (since 18 May 1996) was appointed by the president
#
Council of Ministers was nominated by the President of the Council (i.e., Prime Minister) and approved by the President of the Republic
#
bicameral Parliament (Parlamento)
Senate (Senato della Repubblica): elections last held 22 April 1996 (next to be held by NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (326 total, 315 elected, 11 appointed senators-for-life) Olive Tree 157, Freedom Alliance 116, Northern League 27, Refounded Communists 10, regional lists 3, Social Movement-Tricolor Flames 1, Panella Reformers 1
Chamber of Deputies (Camera dei Deputati): elections last held 22 April 1996 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (630 total) Olive Tree 284, Freedom Alliance 246, Northern League 59, Refounded Communists 35, Southern Tyrol List 3, Autonomous List 2, other 1
#
Constitutional Court (Corte Costituzionale), composed of 15 judges (one-third appointed by the president, one-third elected by Parliament, one-third elected by the ordinary and administrative supreme courts)
Olive Tree: Democratic Party of the Left (PDS), Massimo D'ALEMA; Greens, Carlo RIPA DI MEANA; Italian Renewal, Lamberto DINI; Southern Tyrols List (German speakers). Freedom Alliance: Forza Italia (FI), Silvio BERLUSCONI; National Alliance (AN), Gianfranco FINI; Christian Democratic Center (CCD), Pier Ferdinando CASINI; Democratic Union Party, Antonio MACCANICO. other: Northern League (NL), Umberto BOSSI; Italian Social Movement, Pino RAUTI; Communist Refoundation (RC), Fausto BERTINOTTI; Italian Socialists, Enrico BOSELLI; Rete (The Network), Leoluca ORLANDO; Christian Socialists, Luciano GUERZONI; Democratic Pact for Italy, Mario SEGNI; Italian Popular Party (PPI), Gerardo BIANCO; Pannella's Reformers, Marco PANNELLA; Christian Democratic Union (United Christian Democrats - CDU), Rocco BUTTIGLIONE; Democratic Alliance, Willer BORDON; Union for the New Republic, Raffaele COSTA; Unitary Communists, Famiano CRUCIANELLI; Autonomous List (a group of minor parties); Social Movement-Tricolor Flames
#
the Roman Catholic Church; three major trade union confederations (Confederazione Generale Italiana del Lavoro or CGIL which is PDS-dominated, Confederazione Italiana dei Sindacati Lavoratori or CISL which is centrist, and Unione Italiana del Lavoro or UIL which is center-left); Italian manufacturers and merchants associations (Confindustria, Confcommercio); organized farm groups (Confcoltivatori, Confagricoltura)
#
AfDB, AG (observer), AsDB, Australia Group, BIS, CCC, CDB (non-regional), CE, CEI, CERN, EBRD, ECE, ECLAC, EIB, ESA, EU, FAO, G- 7, G-10, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IEA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Inmarsat, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU, LAIA (observer), MINURSO, MTCR, NACC, NAM (guest), NATO, NEA, NSG, OAS (observer), OECD, OSCE, PCA, UN, UN Security Council (temporary), UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNIFIL, UNIKOM, UNITAR, UNMOGIP, UNTSO, UPU, WCL, WEU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO, ZC
three equal vertical bands of green (hoist side), white, and red; similar to the flag of Ireland, which is longer and is green (hoist side), white, and orange; also similar to the flag of the Cote d'Ivoire, which has the colors reversed - orange (hoist side), white, and green
Since World War II, the Italian economy has changed from one based on agriculture into a ranking industrial economy, with approximately the same total and per capita output as France and the UK. The country is still divided into a developed industrial north, dominated by private companies, and an undeveloped agricultural south, dominated by large public enterprises. Most raw materials needed by industry and over 75% of energy requirements must be imported. In the second half of 1992, Rome became unsettled by the prospect of not qualifying to participate in EU plans for economic and monetary union later in the decade; thus, it finally began to address its huge fiscal imbalances. Subsequently, the government has adopted fairly stringent budgets, abandoned its inflationary wage indexation system, and started to scale back its generous social welfare programs, including pension and health care benefits. Monetary officials were forced to withdraw the lira from the European monetary system in September 1992, when it came under extreme pressure in currency markets. For the 1990s, Italy faces the problems of pushing ahead with fiscal reform, refurbishing a tottering communications system, curbing pollution in major industrial centers, and adjusting to the new competitive forces accompanying the ongoing expansion and economic integration of the EU.
#
3.20
19200
1103237
2.90
31.60
65.50
5.40
23988000
services 58%, industry 32.2%, agriculture 9.8% (1988)
12.20
339000
431000
tourism, machinery, iron and steel, chemicals, food processing, textiles, motor vehicles, clothing, footwear, ceramics
5.50
61.63
209000
4033
fruits, vegetables, grapes, potatoes, sugar beets, soybeans, grain, olives; meat and dairy products; fish catch of 525,000 metric tons in 1990
important gateway country for Latin American cocaine and Southwest Asian heroin entering the European market
190800
metals, textiles and clothing, production machinery, motor vehicles, transportation equipment, chemicals
EU 53.4%, US 7.8%, OPEC 3.8% (1994)
168700.00
industrial machinery, chemicals, transport equipment, petroleum, metals, food, agricultural products
EU 56.3%, OPEC 5.3%, US 4.6% (1994)
67000
?
ODA, $3.043 billion (1993)
1 Italian lira (Lit) = 100 centesimi
1583.80
calendar year
18961
17,981 km 1.435-m gauge; Italian Railways (FS) operates 16,118 km of the total standard gauge routes (10,560 km electrified)
113 km 1.000-m gauge (113 km electrified); 867 km 0.950-m gauge (144 km electrified)
305388
271,674 km
33,714 km (1991 est.)
2400
1703
2148
19400
Ancona, Augusta, Bari, Cagliari (Sardinia), Catania, Gaeta, Genoa, La Spezia, Livorno, Naples, Oristano (Sardinia), Palermo (Sicily), Piombino, Porto Torres (Sardinia), Ravenna, Savona, Trieste, Venice
high-capacity cable and microwave radio relay trunks
satellite earth stations - 3 Intelsat (with a total of 5 antennas - 3 for Atlantic Ocean and 2 for Indian Ocean), 1 Inmarsat (Atlantic Ocean Region), and NA Eutelsat; 21 submarine cables
135
28
0
45700000
83
24350000
Army, Navy, Air Force, Carabinieri
#
14739097
12769628
358884
20400000000
1.90
@Jamaica
0
0$Kingston$1797$-7681$800000$
#
Visited by Columbus in 1494. The indigenous Arawak indians were wiped out
during the period of Spanish rule. Seized by Britain in 1655. Independence
within the Commonwealth was gained on 6 August 1962. The British monarch is
head of state, represented by a governor-general, who nominates the
prime-minister and other ministers. Legislative power rests with the Senate
and House of Representatives. 13 of the 21 senators are nominated by the
governor-general, on advice of the prime-minister; 8 are nominated by the
leader of the opposition. The 60 members of the House of Representatives are
chosen by general election every 5 years.
Jamaica is divided into 14 parishes.
#
JA
Caribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, south of Cuba
10990
10830
?
?
1022
?
200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
200
?
12
none
tropical; hot, humid; temperate interior
mostly mountains with narrow, discontinuous coastal plain
Caribbean Sea 0 m
Blue Mountain Peak 2,256 m
bauxite, gypsum, limestone
19
6
18
28
29
350
deforestation; coastal waters polluted by industrial waste, sewage, and oil spills; damage to coral reefs; air pollution in Kingston results from vehicle emissions
hurricanes (especially July to November)
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Whaling
2595275
32
430609
411966
61
781626
795808
7
77725
97541
0.80
22.19
5.57
-8.58
1.05
1.04
0.98
0.80
0.99
15.60
74.88
72.60
77.29
2.45
Jamaican(s)
Jamaican
African 76.3%, Afro-European 15.1%, East Indian and Afro-East Indian 3%, white 3.2%, Chinese and Afro-Chinese 1.2%, other 1.2%
#
Protestant 55.9% (Church of God 18.4%, Baptist 10%, Anglican 7.1%, Seventh-Day Adventist 6.9%, Pentecostal 5.2%, Methodist 3.1%, United Church 2.7%, other 2.5%), Roman Catholic 5%, other, including some spiritual cults 39.1% (1982)
English, Creole
85
80.80
89.10
none
Jamaica
?
?
parliamentary democracy
Kingston
14 parishes; Clarendon, Hanover, Kingston, Manchester, Portland, Saint Andrew, Saint Ann, Saint Catherine, Saint Elizabeth, Saint James, Saint Mary, Saint Thomas, Trelawny, Westmoreland
Independence: 6 August 1962 (from UK)
#
?
Independence Day (first Monday in August) (1962)
6 August 1962
based on English common law; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
18 years of age; universal
Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952), a hereditary monarch, is represented by Governor General Sir Howard COOKE (since 1 August 1991) who was appointed by the queen on recommendation of the prime minister
Prime Minister Percival James PATTERSON (since 30 March 1992) and the Deputy Prime Minister Seymour MULLINGS (since NA 1993) were appointed by the governor general
#
Cabinet was appointed by the governor general on the advice of the prime minister
#
bicameral Parliament
Senate: consists of a 21-member body appointed by the governor general
House of Representatives: elections last held 30 March 1993 (next to be held by March 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (60 total) PNP 52, JLP 8
#
Supreme Court, judges appointed by the governor general on advice of the prime minister
People's National Party (PNP), P. J. PATTERSON; Jamaica Labor Party (JLP), Edward SEAGA; National Democratic Movement (NDM), Bruce GOLDING
#
Rastafarians (black religious/racial cultists, pan-Africanists); New Beginnings Movement (NBM)
diagonal yellow cross divides the flag into four triangles - green (top and bottom) and black (hoist side and outer side)
Key sectors in this island economy are bauxite (alumina and bauxite account for more than half of exports) and tourism. Since assuming office in 1992, Prime Minister PATTERSON has consolidated the market-oriented reforms initiated by his predecessor, Michael MANLEY, to make Jamaica a regional leader in economic reform. PATTERSON has eliminated most price controls, streamlined tax schedules, and privatized government enterprises. Tight monetary and fiscal policies under an IMF program have helped slow inflation and stabilize the exchange rate, but, as a result, economic growth has slowed down and unemployment remains high. Jamaica's medium-term prospects depend largely on its ability to continue to attract foreign capital and limit speculation against the Jamaican dollar.
#
0.80
1510
3919
7.90
28.10
64
25.50
1062100
services 41%, agriculture 22.5%, industry 19%, unemployed 17.5% (1989)
transshipment point for cocaine from Central and South America to North America and Europe; illicit cultivation of cannabis; government has an active cannabis eradication program
2000
alumina, bauxite, sugar, bananas, rum
US 47%, UK 11%, Canada 9%, Norway 7%, France 4% (1993)
2700
machinery and transport equipment, construction materials, fuel, food, chemicals
US 54%, Japan 4.0%, Mexico 6%, UK 4%, Venezuela 3% (1993)
3600.00
ODA, $239 million (1993)
?
1 Jamaican dollar (J$) = 100 cents
39.86
1 April - 31 March
272
272 km 1.435-m gauge; note - 207 km belonging to the Jamaica Railway Corporation which were in common carrier service are no longer operational; the remaining track is privately owned and used to transport bauxite
18094
12,528 km
5,566 km (1988 est.)
?
?
10
?
Alligator Pond, Discovery Bay, Kingston, Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, Port Antonio, Longs Wharf, Rocky Point
Jamaica Defense Force (includes Ground Forces, Coast Guard and Air Wing), Jamaica Constabulary Force
#
680965
481616
25810
30000000
?
@Jan Mayen
Norway
#
#
[N]
Northern Europe, island between the Greenland Sea and the Norwegian Sea, northeast of Iceland
373
373
?
?
124.10
10
200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
200
?
4
none
arctic maritime with frequent storms and persistent fog
volcanic island, partly covered by glaciers
Norwegian Sea 0 m
Haakon VII Toppen (Beerenberg) 2,277 m
none
0
0
0
0
100
0
NA
dominated by the volcano Beerenberg; volcanic activity resumed in 1970
NA
0
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
none
Jan Mayen
?
?
territory of Norway
none
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
#
?
#
?
?
#
?
#
?
the flag of Norway is used
Jan Mayen is a volcanic island with no exploitable natural resources. Economic activity is limited to providing services for employees of Norway's radio and meteorological stations located on the island.
Electricity:
#
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
0.01
40
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
NA km
NA km
?
?
?
?
none; offshore anchorage only
?
?
?
?
1
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
1
?
?
?
NA
NA
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
@Japan
0
0$Tokyo$3567$13975$24000000$
1$Yokohama$3530$13967$3200000$
1$Osaka$3467$13550$3200000$
1$Nagoya$3514$13689$2100000$
1$Sapporo$4308$14135$1660000$
1$Kobe$3467$13519$1450000$
1$Kyoto$3500$13575$1400000$
1$Fukukoa$3365$13035$1190000$
1$Kawasaki$3558$13869$1150000$
1$Hiroshima$3450$13250$1060000$
1$Kita-Kyushu$3250$13167$1020000$
1$Sendai$3183$13028$900000$
1$Chiba$3550$14011$820000$
3$Fuji$3538$13870$3776$
#
Legend gives the date of the founding of the Japanese empire as 660 BC. The
earliest records of a unified Japan, however, date from 1000 years later.
Buddhism was introduced before the 6th century AD. A feudal system operated
from 1192 until 1867, when power was recovered by the Emperor Meiji. Japan
entered the Second World War by bombing the US base at Pearl Harbour on 7
December 1941. She surrendered on 14 August 1945 after the US dropped atomic
bombs on the towns of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The constitution of 1947
removed all power from the emperor in favour of the parliament, consisting
of two legislative houses: the National Diet has 252 members (elected every
6 years), and the House of Representatives 511 (elected every 4 years). The
emperor now plays a purely ceremonial role. Executive power rests with the
cabinet, chosen by the prime-minister, who is himself chosen by the
parliament. Japan consists of 4 main islands (Hokkaido, Honshu, Kyushu, and
Shikoku) and over 3400 smaller ones.
It is divided into 47 prefectures.
#
J
Eastern Asia, island chain between the North Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Japan, east of the Korean Peninsula
377835
374744
?
?
29751
?
?
?
200
12
islands of Etorofu, Kunashiri, Shikotan, and the Habomai group occupied by the Soviet Union in 1945, now administered by Russia, claimed by Japan; Liancourt Rocks disputed with South Korea; Senkaku-shoto (Senkaku Islands) claimed by China and Taiwan
varies from tropical in south to cool temperate in north
mostly rugged and mountainous
Hachiro-gata -4 m
Fujiyama 3,776 m
negligible mineral resources, fish
13
1
1
67
18
28680
air pollution from power plant emissions results in acid rain; acidification of lakes and reservoirs degrading water quality and threatening aquatic life; Japan's appetite for fish and tropical timber is contributing to the depletion of these resources in Asia and elsewhere
many dormant and some active volcanoes; about 1,500 seismic occurrences (mostly tremors) every year; tsunamis
party to - Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Tropical Timber 94, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Desertification, Law of the Sea, Tropical Timber 94
125449703
16
10121414
9644243
69
43624464
43359249
15
7737781
10962552
0.21
10.19
7.71
-0.40
1.05
1.05
1.01
0.71
0.96
4.40
79.55
76.57
82.68
1.46
Japanese (singular and plural)
Japanese
Japanese 99.4%, other 0.6% (mostly Korean)
#
observe both Shinto and Buddhist 84%, other 16% (including Christian 0.7%)
Independence: 660 BC (traditional founding by Emperor Jimmu)
#
?
Birthday of the Emperor, 23 December (1933)
3 May 1947
modeled after European civil law system with English-American influence; judicial review of legislative acts in the Supreme Court; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with reservations
20 years of age; universal
Emperor AKIHITO (since 7 January 1989) is a constitutional monarch
Prime Minister Ryutaro HASHIMOTO (since 11 January 1996) and Deputy Prime Minister Wataru KUBO (since 11 January 1996) were designated by the Diet and appointed by the emperor
#
Cabinet was appointed by the prime minister
#
bicameral Diet (Kokkai)
House of Councillors (Sangi-in): half of the members elected every three years to six-year terms; elections last held 23 July 1995 (next to be held NA 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (252 total, with 126 up for election) LDP 110 (49 newly won), Shinshinto 56 (40 newly won), SDP 38 (16 newly won), JCP 14 (8 newly won), Sakigate 3 (3 newly won), others 19 (4 newly won), independents 12 (6 newly won); note - the distribution of seats as of 1 March 1996 is as follows - LDP 111, Heisei-kai 69, SDP 35, JCP 14, Sakigake 3, others and independents 19, vacancies 1
House of Representatives (Shugi-in): all members elected every four years to four-year terms; elections last held 18 July 1993 (next to be held by July 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (511 total) LDP 223, SDP 70, Shinseito 55, Komeito 51, JNP 35, JCP 15, DSP 15, Sakigake 13, others 4, independents 30; note - the distribution of seats as of 1 March 1996 is as follows - LDP 207, Shinshinto 170, SDP 63, Sakigake 22, JCP 15, others and independents 19, vacant 15
#
Supreme Court, chief justice is appointed by the emperor after designation by the cabinet, all other justices are appointed by the cabinet
Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), Ryutaro HASHIMOTO, president and Koichi KATO, secretary general; Social Democratic Party (SDP), Tomiichi MURAYAMA, president and Kanju SATO, secretary general; Sakigake (Harbinger), Masayoshi TAKEMURA, chairman and Yukio HATOYAMA, secretary general; Shinshinto (New Frontier Party, NFP), Ichiro OZAWA, chairman and Takashi YONEZAWA, secretary general; Japan Communist Party (JCP), Tetsuzo FUWA, presidium chairman
note: Shinshinto was formed in December 1994 by the merger of Shinseito (Japan Renewal Party, JRP), Komeito (Clean Government Party, CGP), Japan New Party (JNP), Democratic Socialist Party (DSP), and several minor groups; Heisei-kai is a joint bloc of Shinshinto and Komei members; Komei is a group formed from what remains of Komeito in the upper house
white with a large red disk (representing the sun without rays) in the center
Government-industry cooperation, a strong work ethic, mastery of high technology, and a comparatively small defense allocation (roughly 1% of GDP) have helped Japan advance with extraordinary rapidity to the rank of second most powerful economy in the world. One notable characteristic of the economy is the working together of manufacturers, suppliers, and distributors in closely knit groups called keiretsu. A second basic feature has been the guarantee of lifetime employment for a substantial portion of the urban labor force; this guarantee is slowly eroding. Industry, the most important sector of the economy, is heavily dependent on imported raw materials and fuels. The much smaller agricultural sector is highly subsidized and protected, with crop yields among the highest in the world. Usually self-sufficient in rice, Japan must import about 50% of its requirements of other grain and fodder crops. Japan maintains one of the world's largest fishing fleets and accounts for nearly 15% of the global catch. For three decades overall economic growth had been spectacular: a 10% average in the 1960s, a 5% average in the 1970s and 1980s. Growth came to a halt in 1992-95 largely because of the aftereffects of overinvestment during the late 1980s and contractionary domestic policies intended to wring speculative excesses from the stock and real estate markets. At yearend 1995, the financial structure is shaky with banks holding hundreds of billions of dollars of suspect assets. At the same time, the continued basic strength of the economy has been reflected in substantial trade surpluses, sizable foreign investments, and remarkably low rates of unemployment, inflation, and social disorder. The crowding of the habitable land area and the aging of the population are two major long-run problems.
#
0.30
38850
4873721
2.10
40.20
57.70
-0.10
65870000.00
trade and services 54%, manufacturing, mining, and construction 33%, agriculture, forestry, and fishing 7%, government 3%, other 3% (1988)
3.10
595000
829000
among world's largest and technologically advanced producers of steel and non-ferrous metallurgy, heavy electrical equipment, construction and mining equipment, motor vehicles and parts, electronic and telecommunication equipment, machine tools, automated production systems, locomotives and railroad rolling stock, ships, chemicals; textiles, processed foods
3.30
205.14
915000
7293
rice, sugar beets, vegetables, fruit; pork, poultry, dairy products, eggs; world's largest fish catch of 10 million metric tons in 1991
satellite earth stations - 5 Intelsat (4 Pacific Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean), 1 Intersputnik (Indian Ocean Region), and 1 Inmarsat (Pacific and Indian Ocean Regions); submarine cables to China, Philippines, Russia, and US (via Guam)
318
58
0
97000000
12350
100000000
Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (Army), Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (Navy), Japan Air Self-Defense Force (Air Force)
#
31833691
27322517
858912
50200000000
1
@Jarvis Island
United States
#
#
Oceania, island in the South Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from Hawaii to the Cook Islands
4.50
4.50
?
?
8
?
?
200
?
12
none
tropical; scant rainfall, constant wind, burning sun
sandy, coral island surrounded by a narrow fringing reef
Pacific Ocean 0 m
unnamed location 23 m
guano (deposits worked until late 1800s)
0
0
0
0
100
0
no natural fresh water resources
the narrow fringing reef surrounding the island can be a maritime hazard
NA
0
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
none
Jarvis Island
?
?
unincorporated territory of the US administered by the Fish and Wildlife Service of the US Department of the Interior as part of the National Wildlife Refuge System
none; administered from Washington, DC
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
#
?
#
?
?
#
?
#
?
the flag of the US is used
no economic activity
Transportation
#
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
none; offshore anchorage only; note - there is one boat landing area in the middle of the west coast and another near the southwest corner of the island
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
@Jersey
United Kingdom
#
#
Western Europe, island in the English Channel, northwest of France
117
117
?
?
70
?
?
?
12
3
none
temperate; mild winters and cool summers
gently rolling plain with low, rugged hills along north coast
Atlantic Ocean 0 m
unnamed location 143 m
agricultural land
57
?
?
?
?
?
NA
NA
NA
87848
17
7787
7284
69
29928
30395
14
5107
7347
0.77
12.93
9.21
4.01
1.11
1.07
0.98
0.70
0.95
2.70
78.36
75.63
81.39
1.50
Channel Islander(s)
Channel Islander
UK and Norman-French descent
#
Anglican, Roman Catholic, Baptist, Congregational New Church, Methodist, Presbyterian
English (official), French (official), Norman-French dialect spoken in country districts
?
?
?
Bailiwick of Jersey
Jersey
?
?
British crown dependency
Saint Helier
none (British crown dependency)
Independence: none (British crown dependency)
#
?
Liberation Day, 9 May (1945)
unwritten; partly statutes, partly common law and practice
English law and local statute
NA years of age; universal adult
Queen ELIZABETH II (of the United Kingdom since 6 February 1952) is a hereditary monarch
Lieutenant Governor and Commander in Chief Sir Michael WILKES (since NA 1995) and Bailiff Philip Martin BAILHACHE (since NA 1995) were appointed by the queen
#
committees were appointed by the Assembly of the States
#
unicameral
Assembly of the States: elections last held NA (next to be held NA); results - no percent of vote by party since all are independents; seats - (56 total, 52 elected) independents 52
#
Royal Court, judges elected by an electoral college and the bailiff
none; all independents
#
?
#
none
white with the diagonal red cross of Saint Patrick (patron saint of Ireland) extending to the corners of the flag
The economy is based largely on financial services, agriculture, and tourism. Potatoes, cauliflower, tomatoes, and especially flowers are important export crops, shipped mostly to the UK. The Jersey breed of dairy cattle is known worldwide and represents an important export earner. Milk products go to the UK and other EU countries. In 1986 the finance sector overtook tourism as the main contributor to GDP, accounting for 40% of the island's output. In recent years, the government has encouraged light industry to locate in Jersey, with the result that an electronics industry has developed alongside the traditional manufacturing of knitwear. All raw material and energy requirements are imported, as well as a large share of Jersey's food needs.
light industrial and electrical goods, foodstuffs, textiles
UK
?
machinery and transport equipment, manufactured goods, foodstuffs, mineral fuels, chemicals
UK
?
?
?
1 Jersey pound (úJ) = 100 pence
0.65
1 April - 31 March
?
?
NA km
NA km
?
?
?
?
Gorey, Saint Aubin, Saint Helier
?
?
?
?
1
?
?
1
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
61447
NA
3 submarine cables
1
0
0
?
1
?
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
@Johnston Atoll
United States
#
#
Oceania, atoll in the North Pacific Ocean, about one-third of the way from Hawaii to the Marshall Islands
2.80
2.80
?
?
10
?
?
200
?
12
none
tropical, but generally dry; consistent northeast trade winds with little seasonal temperature variation
mostly flat
Pacific Ocean 0 m
Summit Peak 5 m
NA; guano deposits worked until depletion about 1890
0
0
0
0
100
0
no natural fresh water resources
NA
NA
0
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
none
Johnston Atoll
?
?
unincorporated territory of the US administered by the US Defense Nuclear Agency (DNA) and managed cooperatively by DNA and the Fish and Wildlife Service of the US Department of the Interior as part of the National Wildlife Refuge system
none
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
#
?
#
?
?
#
?
#
?
the flag of the US is used
Economic activity is limited to providing services to US military personnel and contractors located on the island. All food and manufactured goods must be imported.
Electricity: supplied by the management and operations contractor
Transportation
Railways: 0 km
#
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
NA km
NA km
?
?
?
?
Johnston Island
?
?
?
?
1
?
1
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
60-channel submarine cable, 22 DSN circuits by satellite, Autodin with standard remote terminal, digital telephone switch, Military Affiliated Radio System (MARS station), UHF/VHF air-ground radio, a link to the Pacific Consolidated Telecommunications Network (PCTN) satellite, and amateur radio
NA
?
5
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
@Jordan
0
0$Amman$3200$3586$2000000$
1$Zarqa$3208$3607$600000$
#
The area occupied by Jordan was conquered by the Arabs in the 7th century
AD. Later it became part of the Ottoman Empire. It was occupied in 1917
Britain, which pledged to support a Jewish national homeland there. In 1921,
the land east of the Jordan was detached to form Transjordan. An independent
kingdom was proclaimed in 1946. The West Bank and old city of Jerusalem were
added to the kingdom during the war with Israel in 1948. The country then
took its present name. During the Six Days War of 1967, the aforementioned
territories were again lost to Israel. Executive power rests with the king
(hereditary male-only monarchy). Legislative power is in the hands of the
bicameral parliament, consisting of the Senate (30 members, appointed by the
king), and the House of Deputies (60 members, chosen by general election
every 4 years).
Jordan has 8 governorates.
#
JOR
Middle East, northwest of Saudi Arabia
89213
88884
1619
Iraq 181 km, Israel 238 km, Saudi Arabia 728 km, Syria 375 km, West Bank 97 km
26
?
?
?
?
3
none
mostly arid desert; rainy season in west (November to April)
mostly desert plateau in east, highland area in west; Great Rift Valley separates East and West Banks of the Jordan River
Dead Sea -408 m
Jabal Ram 1,754 m
phosphates, potash, shale oil
4
0.50
1
0.50
94
570
limited natural fresh water resources; deforestation; overgrazing; soil erosion; desertification
NA
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Law of the Sea
4212152
44
949822
903043
53
1153360
1091416
3
57783
56728
2.65
36.67
3.95
-6.23
1.06
1.05
1.06
1.02
1.05
31.50
72.48
70.62
74.45
5.10
Jordanian(s)
Jordanian
Arab 98%, Circassian 1%, Armenian 1%
#
Sunni Muslim 92%, Christian 8%
Arabic (official), English widely understood among upper and middle classes
86.60
93.40
79.40
Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan
Jordan
Al Mamlakah al Urduniyah al Hashimiyah
Al Urdun
constitutional monarchy
Amman
8 governorates (muhafazat, singular - muhafazah); Al Balqa', Al Karak, Al Mafraq, 'Amman, At Tafilah, Az Zarqa', Irbid, Ma'an
Independence: 25 May 1946 (from League of Nations mandate under British administration)
#
?
Independence Day, 25 May (1946)
8 January 1952
based on Islamic law and French codes; judicial review of legislative acts in a specially provided High Tribunal; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
20 years of age; universal
King HUSSEIN Bin Talal Al Hashimi (since 2 May 1953) is a constitutional monarch
Prime Minister Abd al-Karim al-KABARITI (since 4 February 1996) was appointed by the king
#
Cabinet was appointed by the king
#
bicameral National Assembly (Majlis al-'Umma)
House of Notables (Majlis al-A'ayan): consists of a 40-member body appointed by the king from designated categories of public figures
House of Representatives: elections last held 8 November 1993 (next to be held NA November 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (80 total) IAF 16, Jordanian National Alliance Party 4, Al-Yaqazah Party 2, Al-Watan Party 2, Al-'Ahd Party 2, Jordanian Arab Democratic Party 2, Al-Mustaqbal Party 1, Jordanian Arab Socialist Ba'th Party 1, Jordanian Democratic Progressive Party 1, Jordanian People's Democratic Party-Hashd 1, Jordanian Socialist Democratic Party 1, independents 47
note: the House of Representatives has been convened and dissolved by the king several times since 1974; in November 1989 the first parliamentary elections in 22 years were held
#
Court of Cassation
Al-'Ahd (Pledge) Party, 'Abd al-Hadi al-MAJALI, secretary general; Al-Ahrar (Liberals) Party, Ahmad al-ZU'BI, secretary general; Al-Taqaddumi (Progressive) Party, Fawwaz al-ZUBI, secretary general; Al-Watan (Homeland) Party, 'Akif al-FAYIZ; Al-Yaqazah (Awakening) Party, 'Abd al-Ra'uf al-RAWABIDAH, secretary general; Constitutional Jordanian Arab Front Party, Milhim al-TALL; Democratic Arab Islamic Movement Party-Du'a', Yusuf Abu BAKR, secretary general; Democratic Arab Unionist Party-Wad, Anis al-MU'ASHIR, secretary general; Islamic Action Front (IAF), Ishaq al-FARHAN, secretary general; Jordanian Arab Masses Party, 'Abd al-Khaliq SHATAT, secretary general; Jordanian Arab Socialist Ba'th Party, Taysir al-HIMSI, command first secretary; Jordanian Communist Party (JCP), Ya'qub ZAYADIN, secretary general; Jordanian Democratic Popular Unity Party, 'Azmi al-KHAWAJA, secretary general; Jordanian National Alliance Party, Mijhim al-KHURAYSHAH, secretary general; Jordanian People's Democratic Party-Hashd, Salim al-NAHHAS, secretary general; Jordanian Unionist Democratic Party, 'Isa MADANAT (secretary general), Ali AMIR (secretary general), Munis al-RAZZAZ (secretary general); Pan-Arab Action Front Party, Muhammad al-ZU'BI, secretary general; Popular Unity Party-the Unionists, Mustafa AL-'ISAWI, secretary general; Progress and Justice Party, 'Ali al-SA'D, secretary general; Progressive Arab Ba'th Party, Mahmud al-MA'AYITAH, command secretary; Al-Mustaqbal (Future) Party, Sulayman 'ARAR, secretary general; Jordanian Arab Partisans Party, Muhammad al-MAJALI, leader, Muhammad SHURAYDAH, secretary general
note: in 1995, the Jordanian Arab Democratic Party, the Jordanian Democratic Progressive Party, and the Jordanian Socialist Democratic Party merged to form the Jordanian Unionist Democratic Party
three equal horizontal bands of black (top), white, and green with a red isosceles triangle based on the hoist side bearing a small white seven-pointed star; the seven points on the star represent the seven fundamental laws of the Koran
Jordan is a small Arab country with inadequate supplies of water and other natural resources such as oil and coal. Jordan benefited from increased Arab aid during the oil boom of the late 1970s and early 1980s, when its annual real GNP growth averaged more than 10%. In the remainder of the 1980s, however, reductions in both Arab aid and worker remittances slowed real economic growth to an average of roughly 2% per year. Imports - mainly oil, capital goods, consumer durables, and food - outstripped exports, with the difference covered by aid, remittances, and borrowing. In mid-1989, the Jordanian Government began debt-rescheduling negotiations and agreed to implement an IMF-supported program designed to gradually reduce the budget deficit and implement badly needed structural reforms. The Persian Gulf crisis that began in August 1990, however, aggravated Jordan's already serious economic problems, forcing the government to shelve the IMF program, stop most debt payments, and suspend rescheduling negotiations. Aid from Gulf Arab states, worker remittances, and trade contracted; and refugees flooded the country, producing serious balance-of-payments problems, stunting GDP growth, and straining government resources. The economy rebounded in 1992, largely due to the influx of capital repatriated by workers returning from the Gulf, but the recovery was uneven throughout 1994 and 1995. The government is implementing the reform program adopted in 1992 and continues to secure rescheduling and write-offs of its heavy foreign debt. Debt, poverty, and unemployment remain Jordan's biggest on-going problems.
#
6.50
1500
6318
11
25
64
3
600000
industry 11.4%, commerce, restaurants, and hotels 10.5%, construction 10.0%, transport and communications 8.7%, agriculture 7.4%, other services 52.0% (1992)
crude oil, machinery, transport equipment, food, live animals, manufactured goods
EU, US, Iraq, Japan, Turkey
6900
ODA, $238 million (1993)
?
1 Jordanian dinar (JD) = 1,000 fils
0.71
calendar year
676
676 km 1.050-m gauge; note - an additional 110 km stretch of the old Hedjaz railroad is out of use
5680
5,680 km (including 1,712 km of expressways)
0 km (1991 est.)
?
209
?
?
Al'Aqabah
3
41960
67515
?
14
10
3
?
?
1
?
?
?
?
?
?
81500
microwave radio relay, cable, and radiotelephone links
satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean) and 1 Arabsat; coaxial cable and microwave radio relay to Iraq, Saudi Arabia, and Syria; microwave radio relay to Lebanon is inactive; participant in Medarabtel
5
7
0
1100000
8
350000
Jordanian Armed Forces (JAF; includes Royal Jordanian Land Force, Royal Naval Force, and Royal Jordanian Air Force); Ministry of the Interior's Public Security Force (falls under JAF only in wartime or crisis situations)
#
1011588
721460
45406
589000000
8.20
@Juan de Nova Island
0
#
#
Southern Africa, island in the Mozambique Channel, about one-third of the way between Madagascar and Mozambique
4.40
4.40
?
?
24.10
12
200-m depth or to depth the of exploitation
200
?
12
claimed by Madagascar
tropical
NA
Indian Ocean 0 m
unnamed location 10 m
guano deposits and other fertilizers
0
0
0
90
10
0
NA
periodic cyclones
NA
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
none
Juan de Nova Island
none
Ile Juan de Nova
French possession administered by Commissioner of the Republic, resident in Reunion
none; administered by France from Reunion
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
#
?
#
?
?
#
?
#
?
the flag of France is used
no economic activity
Transportation
Railways:
#
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
1
?
?
?
?
?
?
none; offshore anchorage only
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
1
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
@Kazakhstan
0
0$Alma-Ata$4333$7683$1100000$
#
#
KAS
Central Asia, northwest of China
2717300
2669800
12012
China 1,533 km, Kyrgyzstan 1,051 km, Russia 6,846 km, Turkmenistan 379 km, Uzbekistan 2,203 km
0
?
?
?
?
?
Caspian Sea boundaries are not yet determined
continental, cold winters and hot summers, arid and semiarid
extends from the Volga to the Altai Mountains and from the plains in western Siberia to oasis and desert in Central Asia
Vpadina Kaundy -132 m
Zhengis Shingy 7,439 m
major deposits of petroleum, coal, iron ore, manganese, chrome ore, nickel, cobalt, copper, molybdenum, lead, zinc, bauxite, gold, uranium
15
0
57
4
24
23080
radioactive or toxic chemical sites associated with its former defense industries and test ranges are found throughout the country and pose health risks for humans and animals; industrial pollution is severe in some cities; because the two main rivers which flowed into the Aral Sea have been diverted for irrigation, it is drying up and leaving behind a harmful layer of chemical pesticides and natural salts; these substances are then picked up by the wind and blown into noxious dust storms; pollution in the Caspian Sea; soil pollution from overuse of agricultural chemicals and salinization from faulty irrigation practices
NA
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Ship Pollution; signed, but not ratified - Desertification
16916463
30
2576204
2486937
63
5203035
5451404
7
384341
814542
-0.15
19.02
9.65
-10.88
1.05
1.04
0.95
0.47
0.93
63.20
64.09
58.56
69.90
2.36
Kazakstani(s)
Kazakstani
Kazak (Qazaq) 41.9%, Russian 37%, Ukrainian 5.2%, German 4.7%, Uzbek 2.1%, Tatar 2%, other 7.1% (1991 official data)
#
Muslim 47%, Russian Orthodox 44%, Protestant 2%, other 7%
Kazak (Qazaqz) official language spoken by over 40% of population, Russian (language of interethnic communication) spoken by two-thirds of population and used in everyday business
note: names in parentheses are administrative centers when name differs from oblys name
Independence: 16 December 1991 (from the Soviet Union)
#
?
Independence Day, 16 December (1991)
adopted 28 January 1993; has been amended in April 1995 and August 1995
based on civil law system
18 years of age; universal
President Nursultan A. NAZARBAYEV (since 22 February 1990) was elected chairman of the Supreme Soviet 22 February 1990, and president by popular election 1 December 1991; was elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 1 December 1991 (next to be held NA 2000); results - Nursultan A. NAZARBAYEV ran unopposed; note - President NAZARBAYEV's term was extended to the year 2000 by a nationwide referendum held 30 April 1995
Prime Minister Akezhan KAZHEGELDIN (since 12 October 1994) and First Deputy Prime Ministers Nigmatzhan ISINGARIN (since 12 October 1994) were appointed by the president
#
Council of Ministers was appointed by the prime minister
note: President NAZARBAYEV has expanded his presidential powers by decree: only he can initiate constitutional amendments, appoint and dismiss the government, dissolve parliament, call referenda at his discretion, and appoint administrative heads of regions and cities
#
bicameral Parliament
Senate: elections (indirect) last held 5 December 1995 (next to be held NA 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (47 total) "independent" state officials 25, progovernment parties 11, other parties 2, vacant 9 (of which 7 are to be nominated by the president)
Majilis: elections last held 9 December and 23 December 1995 (next to be held NA); percent of vote by party NA; seats - (67 total) seats by party NA; note - 172 candidates were forwarded by parties and social organizations and 113 candidates were independents
#
Supreme Court
ALASH party; People's Unity Party (PUP; was Union of People's Unity), Akhan BIZHANOV, chairman; Democratic Party, Tulegen ZHUKEYEV and Altynbek SARSENBAYEV, cochairmen; People's Congress of Kazakstan (PCK), Olzhas SULEYMENOV, chairman; Socialist Party of Kazakstan (SPK; former Communist Party), Petr SVOIK, chairman; Communist Party, Baidabek TULEPBAYEV; National Democratic Party, Kamal ORMANTAYEV, chairman; AZAT party, Khasen KOZH-AKHMET, chairman; Confederation of Trade Unions of the Republic of Kazakstan; Peasant Union of the Republic Kazakstan (KPU); Slavic Movement LAD, Aleksandra DOKUCHAYEVA, chairman; Party for Social Justice and Economic Revival "Tagibat"; Social Democratic Party, Dos KUSHIMOV, cochairman; People's Cooperative Party, Umirzak SARSENOV, chairman; Organization of Veterans; Republican Party
#
Independent Trade Union Center, Leonid SOLOMIN, president; Kazakstani-American Bureau on Human Rights, Yevgeniy ZHOVTIS, executive director; Democratic Committee on Human Rights; Independent Miners Union
sky blue background representing the endless sky and a gold sun with 32 rays soaring above a golden steppe eagle in the center; on the hoist side is a "national ornamentation" in yellow
Kazakstan, the second largest of the former Soviet states in territory, possesses enormous untapped fossil-fuel reserves as well as plentiful supplies of other minerals and metals. It also has considerable agricultural potential with its vast steppe lands accommodating both livestock and grain production. Kazakstan's industrial sector rests on the extraction and processing of these natural resources and also on a relatively large machine building sector specializing in construction equipment, tractors, agricultural machinery, and some defense items. The breakup of the USSR and the collapse of demand for Kazakstan's traditional heavy industry products have resulted in a sharp contraction of the economy since 1991, with the steepest annual decline occurring in 1994. The government has pursued a moderate program of economic reform and privatization, resulting in a gradual lifting of state controls over economic activity and a shifting of assets into the private sector. Nevertheless, government control over key sectors of the economy remains strong. Moreover, continued lack of pipeline transportation for expanded oil exports has closed off a likely source of economic recovery.
#
-8.90
1040
17593
28.50
41.50
30
60.30
7356000
industry and construction 31%, agriculture and forestry 26%, other 43% (1992)
1.40
?
?
oil, coal, iron ore, manganese, chromite, lead, zinc, copper, titanium, bauxite, gold, silver, phosphates, sulfur, iron and steel, nonferrous metal, tractors and other agricultural machinery, electric motors, construction materials; much of industrial capacity is shut down and/or is in need of repair
-8
17.38
65700
3700
grain, mostly spring wheat, cotton; wool, meat
illicit cultivation of cannabis and opium poppy; mostly for CIS consumption; government eradication program; used as transshipment point for illicit drugs to Western Europe and North America from Southwest Asia
5100.00
oil, ferrous and nonferrous metals, chemicals, grain, wool, meat, coal
Russia, Ukraine, Uzbekistan
3900
machinery and parts, industrial materials, oil and gas
Russia and other former Soviet republics, China
2500
ODA, $10 million (1993)
?
national currency, the tenge, introduced on 15 November 1993
64
calendar year
13841
13,841 km 1.520-m gauge (3,299 km electrified) (1992)
international traffic with other former Soviet republics and China carried by landline and microwave radio relay and with other countries by satellite and through 8 international telecommunications circuits at the Moscow international gateway switch; satellite earth stations - 1 Intelsat and a new satellite earth station established at Almaty of unknown type
?
?
?
4088000
?
4750000
Army, Air Force, Air Defense Force, National Guard, Security Forces (internal and border troops); Kazakstan may also be establishing a maritime force - navy or coast guard - on the Caspian Sea
#
4399356
3516583
154750
?
?
@Kenya
0
0$Nairobi$-128$3680$2000000$
1$Mombasa$-400$3967$600000$
1$Kisumi$-005$3490$201000$
3$Kenya$-017$3730$5195$
#
The Arabs and Persians traded in spices and slaves on the Kenyan coast in
the 7th century. The British took over control of the region 1866 and Kenya
became a British colony in 1920. It became independent on 12 December 1963.
The president is head of state and leader of the only legal political party,
the Kenyan African National Union. The legislative house, the National
Assembly, has 172 members, 158 chosen by general election, 12 by the
president and two ex officio seats.
Kenya is divided into 7 provinces and the district of Nairobi.
#
EAK
Eastern Africa, bordering the Indian Ocean, between Somalia and Tanzania
582650
569250
3446
Ethiopia 830 km, Somalia 682 km, Sudan 232 km, Tanzania 769 km, Uganda 933 km
536
?
200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
200
?
12
administrative boundary with Sudan does not coincide with international boundary; possible claim by Somalia based on unification of ethnic Somalis
varies from tropical along coast to arid in interior
low plains rise to central highlands bisected by Great Rift Valley; fertile plateau in west
Indian Ocean 0 m
Mount Kenya 5,199 m
gold, limestone, soda ash, salt barytes, rubies, fluorspar, garnets, wildlife
3
1
7
4
85
520
water pollution from urban and industrial wastes; degradation of water quality from increased use of pesticides and fertilizers; deforestation; soil erosion; desertification; poaching
NA
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Desertification
28176686
45
6362160
6226333
53
7413876
7448733
2
328649
396935
2.27
33.38
10.30
-0.35
1.03
1.02
1
0.83
1
55.30
55.61
55.53
55.69
4.45
Kenyan(s)
Kenyan
Kikuyu 22%, Luhya 14%, Luo 13%, Kalenjin 12%, Kamba 11%, Kisii 6%, Meru 6%, Asian, European, and Arab 1%, other 15%
#
Protestant (including Anglican) 38%, Roman Catholic 28%, indigenous beliefs 26%, other 8%
English (official), Swahili (official), numerous indigenous languages
78.10
86.30
70
Republic of Kenya
Kenya
?
?
republic
Nairobi
7 provinces and 1 area*; Central, Coast, Eastern, Nairobi Area*, North Eastern, Nyanza, Rift Valley, Western
Independence: 12 December 1963 (from UK)
#
?
Independence Day, 12 December (1963)
12 December 1963, amended as a republic 1964; reissued with amendments 1979, 1983, 1986, 1988, 1991, and 1992
based on English common law, tribal law, and Islamic law; judicial review in High Court; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with reservations; constitutional amendment of 1982 making Kenya a de jure one-party state repealed in 1991
18 years of age; universal
President Daniel Toroitich arap MOI (since 14 October 1978) elected for a five-year term from the National Assembly by direct popular vote; election last held 29 December 1992 (next to be held by early 1998); results - President Daniel T. arap MOI was reelected with 37% of the vote; Kenneth MATIBA (FORD-ASILI) 26%; Mwai KIBAKI (DP) 19%, Oginga ODINGA (FORD-Kenya) 17%; Vice President George SAITOTI (since 10 May 1989) was appointed by the president
?
#
Cabinet appointed by the president
#
unicameral
National Assembly (Bunge): election last held 29 December 1992 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (188 total) KANU 100, FORD-Kenya 31, FORD-Asili 31, DP 23, smaller parties 3; president nominates 12 additional members; note - as of 9 April 1996 seat distribution was: KANU 106, FORD-Kenya 32, FORD-Asili 22, DP 22, smaller parties and vacancies 6
note: first multiparty election since repeal of one-party state law in 1991
#
Court of Appeal; High Court
ruling party is Kenya African National Union (KANU), President Daniel Toroitich arap MOI; opposition parties include Forum for the Restoration of Democracy (FORD-Kenya), Michael WAMALWA; Forum for the Restoration of Democracy (FORD-Asili), Kenneth MATIBA; Democratic Party of Kenya (DP), Mwai KIBAKI
#
labor unions; Roman Catholic Church; unregistered SAFINA party with which prominent naturalist Richard Leakey is associated
three equal horizontal bands of black (top), red, and green; the red band is edged in white; a large warrior's shield covering crossed spears is superimposed at the center
Kenya in recent years has had one of the highest natural rates of growth in population, but the statistics have been complicated by the large-scale movement of nomadic groups and of Somalis back and forth across the border. Population growth has been accompanied by deforestation, deterioration in the road system, the water supply, and other parts of the infrastructure. In industry and services, Nairobi's reluctance to embrace IMF-supported reforms had held back investment and growth in 1991-93. Nairobi's push on economic reform in 1994, however, helped support a 3.3% increase in output. The strong economy continued into 1995 with inflation cut sharply and GDP growth at 5%.
widespread harvesting of small, wild plots of marijuana and qat (chat); most locally consumed; transit country for Southwest Asian heroin moving to West Africa and onward to Europe and North America; Indian methaqualone also transits on way to South Africa
EC 47%, Africa 23%, Asia 11%, US 4%, Middle East 3% (1991)
2200
machinery and transportation equipment 29%, petroleum and petroleum products 15%, iron and steel 7%, raw materials, food and consumer goods (1989)
EC 46%, Asia 23%, Middle East 20%, US 5% (1991)
7000
ODA, $589 million (1993)
?
1 Kenyan shilling (KSh) = 100 cents
56.72
1 July - 30 June
2652
2,652 km 1.000-m gauge
62573
8,322 km
54,251 km (1991 est.)
?
?
483
?
Kisumu, Lamu, Mombasa
2
4883
6255
oil tanker 1, roll on/roll off 1 (1995 est.)
199
3
2
2
22
62
?
1
12
95
?
?
357251
primarily microwave radio relay
satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean)
16
4
0
?
6
260000
Army, Navy, Air Force, paramilitary General Service Unit of the Police
#
6657530
4114416
?
136000000
1.90
@Kingman Reef
United States
#
#
Oceania, reef in the North Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from Hawaii to American Samoa
1
1
?
?
3
?
?
200
?
12
none
tropical, but moderated by prevailing winds
low and nearly level
Pacific Ocean 0 m
unnamed location 1 m
none
0
0
0
0
100
0
NA
wet or awash most of the time, maximum elevation of about 1 meter makes Kingman Reef a maritime hazard
NA
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
none
Kingman Reef
?
?
unincorporated territory of the US administered by the US Navy; however, it is awash the majority of the time, so it is not usable and is uninhabited
none; administered from Washington, DC
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
#
?
#
?
?
#
?
#
?
the flag of the US is used
no economic activity
Transportation
#
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
none; offshore anchorage only
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
@Kiribati
0
#
The 33 islands which form Kiribati, spread over some 5 million sq.km., were
discovered between the 16th and 18th centuries by European whalers. The
former Gilbert and Ellice Islands became a British protectorate in 1892, to
which was added the Phoenix Islands in 1937. The Ellice Islands became
independent Tuvalu in 1975. The remaining islands became self-governing in
1977 and gained full independence on 12 July 1979. Head of state is the
president, nominated by the 38-seat House of Assembly, the Maneaba ni
Maungatabu, whose members are elected every 4 years.
#
?
Oceania, group of islands in the Pacific Ocean, straddling the equator and the International Date Line, about one-half of the way from Hawaii to Australia
717
717
?
?
1143
?
?
200
?
12
none
tropical; marine, hot and humid, moderated by trade winds
mostly low-lying coral atolls surrounded by extensive reefs
Pacific Ocean 0 m
unnamed location on Banaba 81 m
phosphate (production discontinued in 1979)
0
51
0
3
46
?
heavy pollution in lagoon of south Tarawa atoll due to heavy migration mixed with traditional practices such as lagoon latrines and open-pit dumping; ground water at risk
typhoons can occur any time, but usually November to March; occasional tornadoes
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Marine Dumping, Ozone Layer Protection, Whaling
80919
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
1.89
27.13
7.90
-0.31
?
?
?
?
?
52.90
62.02
60.25
64.03
3.21
I-Kiribati (singular and plural)
I-Kiribati
Micronesian
#
Roman Catholic 52.6%, Protestant (Congregational) 40.9%, Seventh-Day Adventist, Baha'i, Church of God, Mormon 6% (1985)
English (official), Gilbertese
?
?
?
Republic of Kiribati
Kiribati
?
?
republic
Tarawa
3 units; Gilbert Islands, Line Islands, Phoenix Islands
note: in addition, there are 6 districts (Banaba, Central Gilberts, Line Islands, Northern Gilberts, Southern Gilberts, Tarawa) and 21 island councils (Abaiang, Abemama, Aranuka, Arorae, Banaba, Beru, Butaritari, Kanton, Kiritimati, Kuria, Maiana, Makin, Marakei, Nikunau, Nonouti, Onotoa, Tabiteuea, Tabuaeran, Tamana, Tarawa, Teraina; note - one council for each of the inhabited islands)
Independence: 12 July 1979 (from UK)
#
?
Independence Day, 12 July (1979)
12 July 1979
NA
18 years of age; universal
President (Beretitenti) Teburoro TITO (since 1 October 1994) was elected by popular vote; note - the House of Assembly chooses the presidential candidates from among their members and then those candidates compete in a general election; election last held 30 September 1994 (next to be held by NA 1999); results - Teburoro TITO 51.2%, Tewareka TENTOA 18.3%, Roniti TEIWAKI 16.0%, Peter Taberannang TIMEON 14.5%; Vice President (Kauoman-ni-Beretitenti) Tewareka TENTOA (since 12 October 1994) was appointed by the president
?
#
Cabinet was appointed by the president from among the members of the House of Assembly
#
unicameral
House of Assembly (Maneaba Ni Maungatabu): elections last held 22 July 1994 (next to be held by NA 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (40 total, 39 elected) Maneaban Te Mauri 13, National Progressive Party 7, independents 19
#
Court of Appeal, judges at all levels are appointed by the president; High Court, judges at all levels are appointed by the president
National Progressive Party, Teatao TEANNAKI; Christian Democratic Party, Teburoro TITO; New Movement Party, leader NA; Liberal Party, Tewareka TENTOA; Maneaban Te Mauri Party, Roniti TEIWAKI
note: there is no tradition of formally organized political parties in Kiribati; they more closely resemble factions or interest groups because they have no party headquarters, formal platforms, or party structures
the upper half is red with a yellow frigate bird flying over a yellow rising sun, and the lower half is blue with three horizontal wavy white stripes to represent the ocean
A remote country of 33 scattered coral atolls, Kiribati has few national resources. Commercially viable phosphate deposits were exhausted at the time of independence in 1979. Copra and fish now represent the bulk of production and exports. The economy has fluctuated widely in recent years. Real GDP growth has declined from about 10% in 1988 to about 2.6% in 1995. Economic development is constrained by a shortage of skilled workers, weak infrastructure, and remoteness from international markets. The financial sector is at an early stage of development. Foreign financial aid, largely from the UK and Japan, is a critical supplement to GDP, equal in amount to 25%-50% of GDP in recent years.
#
2.60
720
58
?
?
?
5.50
7870
?
2
32.50
54.30
fishing, handicrafts
0.70
0.01
13
131
copra, taro, breadfruit, sweet potatoes, vegetables; fish
?
6.30
copra 50%, seaweed 16%, fish 15%
Denmark, Fiji, US
38.60
foodstuffs, machinery and equipment, miscellaneous manufactured goods, fuel
Australia 40%, Japan 18%, Fiji 17%, NZ 6%, US 4% (1991)
2
ODA, $NA
?
1 Australian dollar ($A) = 100 cents
1.35
NA
?
640
NA km
NA km
5
?
?
?
Banaba, Betio, English Harbor, Kanton
2
3248
4496
oil tanker 1, short-sea passenger 1 (1995 est.)
20
?
?
4
?
5
?
?
?
11
?
?
1400
NA
satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Pacific Ocean)
1
0
0
15000
0
0
no regular military forces; Police Force (carries out law enforcement functions and paramilitary duties; small police posts are on all islands)
#
?
?
?
?
?
@Korea, North
0
0$Pyongyang$3902$12575$2000000$
#
The state of Choson exisited in the area now occupied by Korea in the 2nd
century BC. After the Sino-Japanese war of 1894-1895, Korea fell under
strong Japanese influence and was annexed in 1910. After the Second World
War, the country was divided into a northern zone, under Soviet control, and
a southern zone, under US control (divided by the 38th parallel). The
Democratic People's Republic of Korea was founded on 1 May 1948, in the
northern zone. War was waged with the south from 1950 until 1953. There is a
democratically elected one-chamber parliament, the Supreme People's
Assembly, with 615 seats, but much power also rests with the single Korean
Workers Party.
North Korea is divided into 9 provinces and 4 municipalities.
#
?
Eastern Asia, northern half of the Korean Peninsula bordering the Korea Bay and the Sea of Japan, between China and South Korea
120540
120410
1673
China 1,416 km, South Korea 238 km, Russia 19 km
2495
?
?
200
?
12
short section of boundary with China is indefinite; Demarcation Line with South Korea
temperate with rainfall concentrated in summer
mostly hills and mountains separated by deep, narrow valleys; coastal plains wide in west, discontinuous in east
localized air pollution attributable to inadequate industrial controls; water pollution; inadequate supplies of potable water
late spring droughts often followed by severe flooding; occasional typhoons during the early fall
party to - Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Environmental Modification, Ship Pollution; signed, but not ratified - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection
23904124
30
3605972
3465038
66
7871783
7956935
4
355284
649112
1.74
22.86
5.45
0
1.05
1.04
0.99
0.55
0.98
25.90
70.32
67.23
73.57
2.31
Korean(s)
Korean
racially homogeneous
#
Buddhism and Confucianism, some Christianity and syncretic Chondogyo
Korean
99
99
99
Democratic People's Republic of Korea
North Korea
Choson-minjujuui-inmin-konghwaguk
none
Communist state; Stalinist dictatorship
P'yongyang
9 provinces (do, singular and plural) and 3 special cities* (si, singular and plural); Chagang-do (Chagang Province), Hamgyong-bukto (North Hamgyong Province), Hamgyong-namdo (South Hamgyong Province), Hwanghae-bukto (North Hwanghae Province), Hwanghae-namdo (South Hwanghae Province), Kaesong-si* (Kaesong City), Kangwon-do (Kangwon Province), Namp'o-si* (Namp'o City), P'yongan-bukto (North P'yongan Province), P'yongan-namdo (South P'yongan Province), P'yongyang-si* (P'yongyang City), Yanggang-do (Yanggang Province)
Independence: 9 September 1948
note: 15 August 1945, date of independence from the Japanese and celebrated in North Korea as National Liberation Day
#
?
DPRK Foundation Day, 9 September (1948)
adopted 1948, completely revised 27 December 1972, revised again in April 1992
based on German civil law system with Japanese influences and Communist legal theory; no judicial review of legislative acts; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
17 years of age; universal
KIM Chong-il [defacto]; note - President KIM Il-song was reelected without opposition 24 May 1990 and died 8 July 1994 leaving his son KIM Chong-il as designated successor; however the son has not assumed the titles that his father held and no new elections have been held or scheduled
Premier KANG Song-san (since NA December 1992) was elected by the Supreme People's Assembly
#
State Administration Council was appointed by the Supreme People's Assembly
#
unicameral
Supreme People's Assembly (Ch'oego Inmin Hoeui): elections last held 7-9 April 1990 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (687 total) the KWP approves a single list of candidates who are elected without opposition; minor parties hold a few seats
#
Central Court, judges are elected by the Supreme People's Assembly
major party - Korean Workers' Party (KWP), KIM Chong-il, secretary, Central Committee; Korean Social Democratic Party, KIM Pyong-sik, chairman; Chondoist Chongu Party, YU Mi-yong, chairwoman
three horizontal bands of blue (top), red (triple width), and blue; the red band is edged in white; on the hoist side of the red band is a white disk with a red five-pointed star
More than 90% of this command economy is socialized; agricultural land is collectivized; and state-owned industry produces 95% of manufactured goods. State control of economic affairs is unusually tight even for a communist country because of the small size and homogeneity of the society and the strict rule of KIM Il-song in the past and now his son, KIM Chong-il. Economic growth during the period 1984-88 averaged 2%-3%, but output declined by an average of 4%-5% annually during 1989-95 because of systemic problems and disruptions in socialist-style economic relations and technological links with the former USSR and China. The leadership has insisted on maintaining its high level of military outlays from a shrinking economic pie. Moreover, a serious drawdown in inventories and critical shortages in the energy sector have led to increasing interruptions in industrial production. Abundant mineral resources and hydropower have formed the basis of industrial development since World War II. Manufacturing is centered on heavy industry, including military industry, with light industry lagging far behind. Despite the use of improved seed varieties, expansion of irrigation, and the heavy use of fertilizers, North Korea has not yet become self-sufficient in food production. Indeed, a shortage of arable lands, several years of poor harvests, and a cumbersome distribution system have resulted in chronic food shortages. The year 1995 was marked by serious summer floods that worsened an already tenuous food situation. Substantial grain shipments from Japan and South Korea offset a portion of the losses. North Korea remains far behind South Korea in economic development and living standards.
#
-5
923
22064
25
60
15
?
9615000
agricultural 36%, nonagricultural 64%
?
19300
19300
military products; machine building, electric power, chemicals; mining (coal, iron ore, magnesite, graphite, copper, zinc, lead, and precious metals), metallurgy; textiles, food processing
satellite earth stations - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean) and 1 Intersputnik (Indian Ocean Region); other international connections through Moscow and Beijing
18
0
0
3500000
11
400000
Korean People's Army (includes Army, Navy, Air Force), Civil Security Forces
#
6844035
4143713
194922
5000000000
25
@Korea, South
0
0$Seoul$3755$12697$15300000$
1$Pusan$3508$12900$3800000$
1$Taegu$3583$12860$2200000$
1$Inchon$3753$12675$1800000$
1$Kwangju$3515$12692$1100000$
1$Taejon$3633$12743$1000000$
#
The state of Choson exisited in the area now occupied by Korea in the 2nd
century BC. After the Sino-Japanese war of 1894-1895, Korea fell under
strong Japanese influence and was annexed in 1910. After the Second World
War, the country was divided into a northern zone, under Soviet control, and
a southern zone, under US control (divided by the 38th parallel). The
Republic of Korea was formed in the southern zone in May 1948. War was waged
with the south from 1950 until 1953. The president holds executive power, is
head of state, leader of the cabinet, whose members he can nominate and
dismiss, and commander-in-chief of the armed forces. South Korea is divided
into 9 provinces and the cities of Seoul, Pusan, Inchon, and Taegu.
#
ROK
Eastern Asia, southern half of the Korean Peninsula bordering the Sea of Japan and the Yellow Sea, south of North Korea
98480
98190
238
North Korea 238 km
2413
?
not specified
?
?
12
Demarcation Line with North Korea; Liancourt Rocks claimed by Japan
temperate, with rainfall heavier in summer than winter
mostly hills and mountains; wide coastal plains in west and south
air pollution in large cities; water pollution from the discharge of sewage and industrial effluents; drift net fishing
occasional typhoons bring high winds and floods; earthquakes in southwest
party to - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Tropical Timber 94; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Law of the Sea
45482291
23
5531032
4962915
71
16374678
15910846
6
1014649
1688171
1.02
16.24
5.66
-0.35
1.14
1.11
1.03
0.60
1.02
8.20
73.26
69.65
77.39
1.77
Korean(s)
Korean
homogeneous (except for about 20,000 Chinese)
#
Christianity 48.6%, Buddhism 47.4%, Confucianism 3%, pervasive folk religion (shamanism), Chondogyo (Religion of the Heavenly Way) 0.2%
Korean, English widely taught in high school
98
99.30
96.70
Republic of Korea
South Korea
Taehan-min'guk
none
republic
Seoul
9 provinces (do, singular and plural) and 6 special cities* (gwangyoksi, singular and plural); Cheju-do, Cholla-bukto, Cholla-namdo, Ch'ungch'ong-bukto, Ch'ungch'ong-namdo, Inch'on-gwangyoksi*, Kangwon-do, Kwangju-gwangyoksi*, Kyonggi-do, Kyongsang-bukto, Kyongsang-namdo, Pusan-gwangyoksi*, Soul-t'ukpyolsi*, Taegu-gwangyoksi*, Taejon-gwangyoksi*
Independence: 15 August 1948
#
?
Independence Day, 15 August (1948)
25 February 1988
combines elements of continental European civil law systems, Anglo-American law, and Chinese classical thought
20 years of age; universal
President KIM Yong-sam (since 25 February 1993) was elected by popular vote for a five-year term; election last held 18 December 1992 (next to be held NA December 1997); results - KIM Yong-sam (DLP) 41.9%, KIM Tae-chung (DP) 33.8%, CHONG Chu-yong (UPP) 16.3%, other 8%
Prime Minister YI Su-song (since 15 December 1995) was appointed by the president with the consent of the National Assembly; Deputy Prime Ministers NA Ung-pae (since 20 December 1995) and KWON O-ki (since 20 December 1995) were appointed by the president on the prime minister's recommendation
#
State Council was appointed by the president on the prime minister's recommendation
#
unicameral
National Assembly (Kukhoe): members elected for four-year terms; elections last held 11 April 1996 (next to be held NA 2000); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (299 total) NKP 139, NCNP 79, ULD 50, DP 15, independents 16
#
Supreme Court, justices are appointed by the president subject to the consent of the National Assembly
majority party: New Korea Party (NKP), KIM Yong-sam, president
opposition: United Liberal Democratic Party (ULD), KIM Chong-p'il, president; Democratic Party (DP), KIM Won-ki, co-chairman and CHANG Ul-pyong, co-chairman; National Congress for New Politics (NCNP), KIM Tae-chung, president
#
Korean National Council of Churches; National Democratic Alliance of Korea; National Federation of Student Associations; National Federation of Farmers' Associations; National Council of Labor Unions; Federation of Korean Trade Unions; Korean Veterans' Association; Federation of Korean Industries; Korean Traders Association
white with a red (top) and blue yin-yang symbol in the center; there is a different black trigram from the ancient I Ching (Book of Changes) in each corner of the white field
As one of the Four Dragons of East Asia, South Korea has achieved an incredible record of growth. Three decades ago its GDP per capita was comparable with levels in the poorer countries of Africa and Asia. Today its GDP per capita is nine times India's, 14 times North Korea's, and already up with the lesser economies of the European Union. This success has been achieved by a unique combination of authoritarian government guidance of what is at bottom an essentially entrepreneurial process. The government has sponsored large-scale adoption of technology and management from Japan and other modern nations; has successfully pushed the development of export industries while encouraging the import of machinery and materials at the expense of consumer goods; and has pushed its labor force to a work effort seldom matched anywhere even in wartime. Real GDP grew by an average 10% in 1986-91, then paused to a "mere" 5% in 1992-93, only to move back up to 8% in 1994 and 9% in 1995. With a much higher standard of living and with a considerable easing of authoritarian controls, the work pace has softened. Growth rates will probably slow down over the medium term because of the exhaustion of former growth opportunities and the need to deal with pollution and the other problems of success.
#
9
9700
441178
8
45
47
4.30
20000000
services and other 52%, mining and manufacturing 27%, agriculture, fishing, forestry 21% (1991)
fiber-optic submarine cable to China; satellite earth stations - 3 Intelsat (2 Pacific Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean) and 1 Inmarsat (Pacific Ocean Region)
79
46
0
42000000
256
9300000
Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, National Maritime Police (Coast Guard)
#
13602115
8706545
398322
17400000000
3.30
@Kuwait
0
0$Kuwait$2933$4800$1500000$
#
The area was already inhabited about 2500 BC. It became part of the Persian
Empire in the 3rd century AD, and was absorbed by the caliphate of Omajjaden
in 680 and later by the caliphate of Abbasiden. The autonomous sheikdom of
Kuwait dates from 1756. Descendants of the first sheik, from the Al-Sabah
family, have ruled since then. Kuwait became a British protectorate in 1899.
Oil was discovered in 1938, but production was delayed until 1946, after the
Second World War. Kuwait became independent in 1961. On 2 August 1990, Iraq
invaded Kuwait, after having made numerous claims to Kuwaiti territory since
1961. On 29 August, it declared Kuwait to be the 19th province of Iraq. Head
of state, and emir, is sheik Jabir al-Ahmad al-Jabir as-Sabah. Executive
power is with him, aided by a cabinet-council. He nominates the
prime-minister and other ministers. Legislative power rests with the
National Assembly of 65 members.
Kuwait is divided into 4 governorates.
#
KWT
Middle East, bordering the Persian Gulf, between Iraq and Saudi Arabia
17820
17820
464
Iraq 242 km, Saudi Arabia 222 km
499
?
?
?
?
12
in November 1994, Iraq formally accepted the UN-demarcated border with Kuwait which had been spelled out in Security Council Resolutions 687 (1991), 773 (1993), and 883 (1993); this formally ends earlier claims to Kuwait and to Bubiyan and Warbah islands; ownership of Qaruh and Umm al Maradim islands disputed by Saudi Arabia
dry desert; intensely hot summers; short, cool winters
flat to slightly undulating desert plain
Persian Gulf 0 m
unnamed location 306 m
petroleum, fish, shrimp, natural gas
0
0
8
0
92
20
limited natural fresh water resources; some of world's largest and most sophisticated desalination facilities provide much of the water; air and water pollution; desertification
sudden cloudbursts are common from October to April, they bring inordinate amounts of rain which can damage roads and houses; sandstorms and dust storms occur throughout the year, but are most common between March and August
party to - Climate Change, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Desertification, Endangered Species, Marine Dumping
1950047
33
334778
317241
65
757535
507064
2
18459
14970
6.65
20.28
2.20
48.46
1.05
1.05
1.49
1.23
1.32
11.10
75.92
73.59
78.38
2.82
Kuwaiti(s)
Kuwaiti
Kuwaiti 45%, other Arab 35%, South Asian 9%, Iranian 4%, other 7%
#
Muslim 85% (Shi'a 30%, Sunni 45%, other 10%), Christian, Hindu, Parsi, and other 15%
Arabic (official), English widely spoken
78.60
82.20
74.90
State of Kuwait
Kuwait
Dawlat al Kuwayt
Al Kuwayt
nominal constitutional monarchy
Kuwait
5 governorates (muhafazat, singular - muhafazah); Al Ahmadi, Al Jahrah, Al Kuwayt, Hawalli, Al Farwaniyah
Independence: 19 June 1961 (from UK)
#
?
National Day, 25 February (1950)
approved and promulgated 11 November 1962
civil law system with Islamic law significant in personal matters; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
adult males who have been naturalized for 30 years or more or have resided in Kuwait since before 1920 and their male descendants at age 21
Amir JABIR al-Ahmad al-Jabir Al Sabah (since 31 December 1977) is a hereditary monarch of the MUBARAK line of the ruling Sabah family
Prime Minister and Crown Prince SAAD al-Abdallah al-Salim Al Sabah (since 8 February 1978), First Deputy Prime Minister SABAH al-Ahmad al-Jabir Al Sabah (since 17 October 1992), and Second Deputy Prime Minister Nasir Abdallah al-RUDAN (since NA) were appointed by the Amir
#
Council of Ministers was appointed by the prime minister and approved by the amir
#
unicameral
National Assembly (Majlis al-umma): elected members serve four-year terms; elections last held 5 October 1992 (next to be held NA September 1996); results - percent of vote NA; seats - (50 total) independents 50; note - all cabinet ministers are also ex officio members of the National Assembly
#
High Court of Appeal
none
#
several political groups act as de facto parties: Bedouins, merchants, Sunni and Shi'a activists, and secular leftists and nationalists
three equal horizontal bands of green (top), white, and red with a black trapezoid based on the hoist side
Kuwait is a small and relatively open economy with proved crude oil reserves of about 94 billion barrels - 10% of world reserves. Kuwait has rebuilt its war-ravaged petroleum sector; its crude oil production averaged 2.0 million barrels per day in 1994. The government continues to record large fiscal deficits. Petroleum accounts for nearly half of GDP, 90% of export revenues, and 70% of government income. Kuwait lacks water and has practically no arable land, thus preventing development of agriculture. With the exception of fish, it depends almost wholly on food imports. About 75% of potable water must be distilled or imported. Because of its high per capita income, comparable with Western European incomes, Kuwait provides its citizens with extensive health, educational, and retirement benefits. Per capita military expenditures are among the highest in the world. The economy improved moderately in 1994-95, with the growth in industry and finance. The World Bank has urged Kuwait to push ahead with privatization, including in the oil industry, but the government will move slowly on this front.
#
3
17440
34009
0
55
45
5
1000000
industry and agriculture 25.0%, services 25.0%, government and social services 50.0%
0
9700.00
14200
petroleum, petrochemicals, desalination, food processing, construction materials, salt, construction
1
7.07
11000
6007
practically no crops; extensive fishing in territorial waters
?
11900
oil
US 23%, Japan 13%, Germany 10%, UK 9%, France 8%
6700
food, construction materials, vehicles and parts, clothing
US 14%, Japan 12%, Germany 8%, UK 7%, France 6% (1994 est.)
?
?
?
1 Kuwaiti dinar (KD) = 1,000 fils
0.30
1 July - 30 June
?
4273
NA km (including 280 km of expressways) (1989 est.)
new telephone exchanges provide a large capacity for new subscribers; trunk traffic is carried by microwave radio relay, coaxial cable, open wire and fiber-optic cable; a cellular telephone system operates throughout Kuwait and the country is well supplied with pay telephones
coaxial cable and microwave radio relay to Saudi Arabia; satellite earth stations - 3 Intelsat (1 Atlantic Ocean, 2 Indian Ocean), 1 Inmarsat (Atlantic Ocean), and 1 Arabsat
3
0
0
720000
3
800000
Army, Navy, Air Force, National Guard, Ministry of Interior Forces, Coast Guard
#
658270
391586
17544
3500000000
12.80
@Kyrgyzstan
0
0$Biskek$4283$7458$600000$
#
#
KIS
Central Asia, west of China
198500
191300
3878
China 858 km, Kazakstan 1,051 km, Tajikistan 870 km, Uzbekistan 1,099 km
0
?
?
?
?
?
territorial dispute with Tajikistan on southwestern boundary in Isfara Valley area
dry continental to polar in high Tien Shan; subtropical in southwest (Fergana Valley); temperate in northern foothill zone
peaks of Tien Shan and associated valleys and basins encompass entire nation
Kara-Daryya 132 m
Jengish Chokusu 7,439 m
abundant hydroelectric potential; significant deposits of gold and rare earth metals; locally exploitable coal, oil, and natural gas; other deposits of nepheline, mercury, bismuth, lead, and zinc
7
0
42
0
51
10320
water pollution; many people get their water directly from contaminated streams and wells; as a result, water-borne diseases are prevalent; increasing soil salinity from faulty irrigation practices
NA
NA
4529648
37
847859
828889
57
1263044
1312040
6
100524
177292
0.07
26.02
8.83
-16.50
1.05
1.02
0.96
0.57
0.95
77.80
63.86
59.18
68.77
3.22
Kyrgyz(s)
Kyrgyz
Kirghiz 52.4%, Russian 21.5%, Uzbek 12.9%, Ukrainian 2.5%, German 2.4%, other 8.3%
#
Muslim NA%, Russian Orthodox NA%
Kirghiz (Kyrgyz) - official language, Russian - official language
note: names in parentheses are administrative centers when name differs from oblast name
Independence: 31 August 1991 (from Soviet Union)
#
?
National Day, 2 December; Independence Day, 31 August (1991)
adopted 5 May 1993
based on civil law system
18 years of age; universal
President Askar AKAYEV (since 28 October 1990) was elected for a five-year term by popular vote; elections last held 24 December 1995 (next to be held NA); results - Askar AKAYEV won election with 75% of vote with 86% of electorate voting; note - elections were held early which gave the two opposition candidates little time to campaign; AKAYEV may have orchestrated the "deregistration" of two other candidates, one of whom was a major rival
Prime Minister Apas JUMAGULOV (since NA December 1993) was appointed by the president and reappointed February 1996
#
Cabinet of Ministers was appointed by the president on the recommendation of the prime minister
#
bicameral Supreme Council (Zhogorku Kenesh)
Assembly of People's Representatives: elections last held 5 February 1995 (next to be held NA 2000); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (70 total) seats by party NA; note - not all the 70 seats were filled at the 5 February elections; as a result, run-off elections were held at later dates; the assembly meets twice yearly
Legislative Assembly: elections last held 5 February 1995 (next to be held NA 2000); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (35 total) seats by party NA; note - not all the 35 seats were filled at the 5 February elections; as a result, run-off elections were held
note: the legislature became bicameral for the 5 February 1995 elections
#
Supreme Court, judges are appointed for a 10-year term by the Zhogorku Kenesh on recommendation of the president; Constitutional Court; Higher Court of Arbitration
Social Democratic Party (SDP); Democratic Movement of Kyrgyzstan (DDK), Jypar JEKSHEYEV, chairman; National Unity; Communist Party of Kyrgyzstan (PCK), Absamat MASALIYEV, chairman; Democratic Movement of Free Kyrgyzstan (ErK), Tursunbay Bakir UULU, chairman; Republican Popular Party of Kyrgyzstan; Agrarian Party of Kyrgyzstan; Atu Meken Party, Omurbek TEKEBAYEV; ASABA
#
National Unity Democratic Movement; Peasant Party; Council of Free Trade Unions; Union of Entrepreneurs; Agrarian Party
red field with a yellow sun in the center having 40 rays representing the 40 Kirghiz tribes; on the obverse side the rays run counterclockwise, on the reverse, clockwise; in the center of the sun is a red ring crossed by two sets of three lines, a stylized representation of the roof of the traditional Kirghiz yurt
Kyrgyzstan is a small, poor, mountainous country with a predominantly agricultural economy. Cotton, wool, and meat are the main agricultural products and exports. Industrial exports included gold, mercury, uranium, and hydropower. Kyrgyzstan has been one of the most progressive countries of the former Soviet Union in carrying out market reforms. Following a successful stabilization program, which has lowered inflation from 88% in 1994 to 32% for 1995, attention is turning toward stimulating growth. About half of government stock in enterprises has been sold. Drops in production have been severe since the break up of the Soviet Union, but by mid-1995 production began to level off as exports began to increase. The level of hardship for pensioners, unemployed workers, and government workers with salaries arrears continues to be very high. Foreign assistance plays a substantial role in the country's budget. In early 1996, the economy apparently is slowly beginning to restore previous levels of output.
#
-6
690
3125
?
?
?
32
1836000
agriculture and forestry 38%, industry and construction 21%, other 41% (1990)
4.80
?
?
small machinery, textiles, food processing, cement, shoes, sawn logs, refrigerators, furniture, electric motors, gold, rare earth metals
illicit cultivator of cannabis and opium poppy; mostly for CIS consumption; government eradication program; used as transshipment point for illicit drugs to Western Europe and North America from Southwest Asia
introduced national currency, the som (10 May 1993)
11.20
calendar year
370
370 km 1.520-m gauge (1990)
28400
22,400 km
6,000 km (1990)
?
?
?
200
Balykchy (Ysyk-Kol or Rybach'ye)
?
?
?
?
54
1
3
9
?
1
?
?
4
4
32
?
342000
principally microwave radio relay
connections with other CIS countries by landline or microwave radio relay and with other countries by leased connections with Moscow international gateway switch and by satellite; satellite earth stations - 1 Intersputnik and 1 Intelsat
?
?
?
825000
1
875000
Army, National Guard, Security Forces (internal and border troops), Civil Defense
#
1096985
890901
44159
?
?
@Laos
0
0$Vientiane$1798$10264$700000$
#
Laos was first united as the kingdom of Lan Xang ("million elephants") in
1353, after being a province of the Khmer Empire for about four centuries.
It divided into three separate kingdoms in 1707. France declared Laos a
protectorate in 1893. Internal self-government was granted in 1946. Autonomy
as a constitutional monarchy within the French Union was gained on 19 July
1949, followed by full independence in 1953. Political instability led to
civil war in 1959 between conservative royalists and the communist Pathet
Lao movement. A coalition formed in 1962 collapsed in 1964. Government
troops were ordered to cease firing in May 1975 and the Pathet Lao took
control; the king abdicated the following November, and the Lao People's
Democratic Republic was proclaimed on 3 December. The chairman of the
Supreme People's Council is also president of Laos. Ministers are nominated
by the general secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party,
now called the Revolutionary People's Party (PPL). Provincial government is
under complete control of the PPL via a series of revolutionary people's
committees.
Laos is divided into 16 provinces and the Vientiane prefecture.
#
LAO
Southeastern Asia, northeast of Thailand
236800
230800
5083
Burma 235 km, Cambodia 541 km, China 423 km, Thailand 1,754 km, Vietnam 2,130 km
0
?
?
?
?
?
boundary dispute with Thailand
tropical monsoon; rainy season (May to November); dry season (December to April)
mostly rugged mountains; some plains and plateaus
Mekong River 70 m
Phou Bia 2,817 m
timber, hydropower, gypsum, tin, gold, gemstones
4
0
3
58
35
1554
deforestation; soil erosion; a majority of the population does not have access to potable water
floods, droughts, and blight
party to - Environmental Modification, Nuclear Test Ban; signed, but not ratified - Climate Change, Desertification, Law of the Sea
4975772
45
1142825
1114628
51
1237660
1316591
4
75748
88320
2.81
41.94
13.83
0
1.05
1.02
0.94
0.86
0.98
96.80
52.69
51.14
54.31
5.87
Lao(s) or Laotian(s)
Lao or Laotian
Lao Loum (lowland) 68%, Lao Theung (upland) 22%, Lao Soung (highland) including the Hmong ("Meo") and the Yao (Mien) 9%, ethnic Vietnamese/Chinese 1%
#
Buddhist 60%, animist and other 40%
Lao (official), French, English, and various ethnic languages
56.60
69.40
44.40
Lao People's Democratic Republic
Laos
Sathalanalat Paxathipatai Paxaxon Lao
none
Communist state
Vientiane
16 provinces (khoueng, singular and plural) and 1 municipality* (kampheng nakhon, singular and plural); Attapu, Bokeo, Bolikhamxai, Champasak, Houaphan, Khammouan, Louangnamtha, Louangphabang, Oudomxai, Phongsali, Salavan, Savannakhet, Viangchan*, Viangchan, Xaignabouli, Xekong, Xiangkhoang
Independence: 19 July 1949 (from France)
#
?
National Day, 2 December (1975) (proclamation of the Lao People's Democratic Republic)
promulgated 14 August 1991
based on traditional customs, French legal norms and procedures, and Socialist practice
18 years of age; universal
President NOUHAK PHOUMSAVAN (since 25 November 1992) was elected for a five-year term by the National Assembly
Prime Minister Gen. KHAMTAI SIPHANDON (since 15 August 1991) was appointed for a five-year term by the president with the approval of the National Assembly; Deputy Prime Minister KHAMPHOUI KEOBOUALAPHA (since NA)
#
Council of Ministers was appointed by the president, approved by the National Assembly
#
unicameral
National Assembly: members elected for five-year terms; elections last held 20 December 1992 (next to be held NA 1997); results - percent of vote NA; seats - (85 total) LPRP 85
#
People's Supreme Court, the president of the People's Supreme Court is elected by the National Assembly on the recommendation of the National Assembly Standing Committee, the vice president of the People's Supreme Court and the judges are appointed by the National Assembly Standing Committee
Lao People's Revolutionary Party (LPRP), KHAMTAI Siphandon, party president; other parties proscribed
#
noncommunist political groups proscribed; most opposition leaders fled the country in 1975
three horizontal bands of red (top), blue (double width), and red with a large white disk centered in the blue band
The government of Laos - one of the few remaining official communist states - has been decentralizing control and encouraging private enterprise since 1986. The results, starting from an extremely low base, have been striking - growth has averaged 7.5% annually since 1988. Even so, Laos is a landlocked country with a primitive infrastructure. It has no railroads, a rudimentary road system, and limited external and internal telecommunications. Electricity is available in only a few urban areas. Subsistence agriculture accounts for half of GDP and provides 80% of total employment. The predominant crop is rice. In non-drought years, Laos is self-sufficient overall in food, but each year flood, pests, and localized drought cause shortages in various parts of the country. For the foreseeable future the economy will continue to depend on aid from the IMF and other international sources; aid from the former USSR/Eastern Europe has been cut sharply. As in many developing countries, deforestation and soil erosion will hamper efforts to maintain the high rate of GDP growth.
#
8
350
1742
50
17
33
20
1000000
agriculture 80% (1992 est.)
21
198
351
tin and gypsum mining, timber, electric power, agricultural processing, construction
world's third largest opium producer (180 metric tons from nearly 20,000 hectares in 1995); heroin producer; increasingly used as transshipment point for heroin produced in Burma; illicit producer of cannabis
278
electricity, wood products, coffee, tin, garments
Thailand, Japan, France, Germany, Netherlands
486
food, fuel oil, consumer goods, manufactures
Thailand, China, Japan, France, US
2000
ODA, $NA
?
1 new kip (NK) = 100 at
920
1 October - 30 September
?
14130
2,261 km
11,869 km (1992 est.)
4587
?
136
?
none
1
2370
3000
?
39
1
?
5
3
16
?
?
1
13
?
?
6600
radiotelephone communications
satellite earth station - 1 Intersputnik (Indian Ocean Region)
10
0
0
560000
2
32000
Lao People's Army (LPA; includes riverine naval and militia elements), Air Force, National Police Department
#
1087264
586664
53250
105000000
8.10
@Latvia
0
0$Riga$5689$2414$930000$
#
#
LR
Eastern Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea, between Estonia and Lithuania
64100
64100
1078
Belarus 141 km, Estonia 267 km, Lithuania 453 km, Russia 217 km
531
?
200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
200
?
12
the Abrene/Pytalovo section of border ceded by the Latvian Soviet Socialist Republic to Russia in 1944; the maritime borders with Lithuania and Estonia
maritime; wet, moderate winters
low plain
Baltic Sea 0 m
Gaizinkalns 312 m
minimal; amber, peat, limestone, dolomite
27
0
13
39
21
160
air and water pollution because of a lack of waste conversion equipment; Gulf of Riga and Daugava River heavily polluted; contamination of soil and groundwater with chemicals and petroleum products at military bases
NA
party to - Air Pollution, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Hazardous Wastes, Ship Pollution, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Ozone Layer Protection
2468982
20
254664
244502
66
775690
848128
14
108814
237184
-1.39
10.94
15.19
-9.69
1.05
1.04
0.92
0.46
0.86
21.20
66.91
60.84
73.27
1.62
Latvian(s)
Latvian
Latvian 51.8%, Russian 33.8%, Byelorussian 4.5%, Ukrainian 3.4%, Polish 2.3%, other 4.2%
#
Lutheran, Roman Catholic, Russian Orthodox
Lettish (official), Lithuanian, Russian, other
100
100
99
Republic of Latvia
Latvia
Latvijas Republika
Latvija
republic
Riga
26 counties (singular - rajons) and 7 municipalities*: Aizkraukles Rajons, Aluksnes Rajons, Balvu Rajons, Bauskas Rajons, Cesu Rajons, Daugavpils*, Daugavpils Rajons, Dobeles Rajons, Gulbenes Rajons, Jekabpils Rajons, Jelgava*, Jelgavas Rajons, Jurmala*, Kraslavas Rajons, Kuldigas Rajons, Leipaja*, Liepajas Rajons, Limbazu Rajons, Ludzas Rajons, Madonas Rajons, Ogres Rajons, Preiju Rajons, Rezekne*, Rezeknes Rajons, Riga*, Rigas Rajons, Saldus Rajons, Talsu Rajons, Tukuma Rajons, Valkas Rajons, Valmieras Rajons, Ventspils*, Ventspils Rajons
Independence: 6 September 1991 (from Soviet Union)
#
?
Independence Day, 18 November (1918)
newly elected Parliament in 1993 restored the 1933 constitution
based on civil law system
18 years of age; universal
President Guntis ULMANIS (since 7 July 1993) was elected by Parliament (Saeima) in the third round of balloting; election last held 7 July 1993 (next to be held NA June 1996)
Prime Minister Andris SKELE (since 21 December 1995) was appointed by the president
#
Council of Ministers was nominated by the prime minister and appointed by the Supreme Council
#
unicameral
Parliament (Saeima): elections last held 30 September-1 October 1995 (next to be held NA October 1998); results - Saimnieks 18%, LC 17%, For Latvia 16%, TB 14%, LNNK 8%, Unity 8%, LSZ/LKDS 7%, Harmony 6%, Socialist 6%; seats - (100 total) Saimnieks 18, LC 17, For Latvia 16, TB 14, LNNK 8, Unity 8, LSZ/LKDS 7, Harmony 6, Socialist 6
#
Supreme Court, judges' appointments are confirmed by the Saeima
Democratic Party "Saimnieks" (DPS), Ziedonis CEVERS, chairman; Latvia's Way (LC), Valdis BIRKAVS; People's Movement For Latvia, Joachim SIEGERIST; Fatherland and Freedom (TB), Maris GRINBLATS; Latvian Unity Party (LVP), A. KAULS; Latvian National Conservative Party (LNNK), A. SEILE; Green Party (LSZ), O. BATAREVSK; Latvian Farmers Union (LZS), A. ROZENTALS; Christian Democrat Union (LKDS), P. KLAVINS; National Harmony Party (TSP), Janis JURKANS; Latvian Socialist Party (LSP), F. STROGANOVS; Latvian Liberal Party (LLP), J. DANOSS; Political Association of the Underprivileged (MPA), B. PELSE, V. DIMANTS, J. KALNINS; Latvian Democratic Labor Party (LDDP), J. BOJARS; Party of Russian Citizens (LKPP), V. SOROCHIN, V. IVANOV; Popular Front of Latvia (LTF), Uldis AUGSTKALNS; Political Union of Economists (TPA), E. KIDE; Latvian National Democratic Party (LNDP), A. MALINS; "Our Land" (MZ), M. DAMBEKALNE; Anticommunist Union (PA), P. MUCENIEKS; Latvian Social-Democratic Workers Party (LSDSP); Party for the Defense of Latvia's Defrauded People; Latvian Independence Party (LNP), V. KONOVALOUS
two horizontal bands of maroon (top and bottom), white (middle, narrower than other two bands)
Latvia's economic transformation to a modern market economy - rivaled only by Estonia among the former Soviet states - faltered in 1995 as a result of banking and budget crises. Latvia's largely unregulated financial sector suffered a series of bank failures, including the collapse of the country's largest commercial bank - Bank Baltija - due largely to criminal activity by the owners. The government's attempts to compensate depositors of failed banks exacerbated an existing budget shortfall; poor revenue collection and a soft treasury bill market had already caused the government to incur a larger than expected deficit early in the year. As a result of the crises, Latvia's budget deficit for 1995 was $168 million, double that originally planned. In addition, GDP growth came to a halt. The Central Bank maintained its tough monetary policies - severely limiting credits to the state, despite the budget problems - helping to keep annual inflation the lowest among the Baltic states, at about 20%. New Prime Minister SKELE wants to invigorate the privatization of industry; agriculture already is mainly in private hands.
#
-1.50
2420
5975
9
31
60
20
1407000
industry and construction 41%, agriculture and forestry 16%, other 43% (1990)
6.50
?
?
buses, vans, street and railroad cars, synthetic fibers, agricultural machinery, fertilizers, washing machines, radios, electronics, pharmaceuticals, processed foods, textiles; dependent on imports for energy, raw materials, and intermediate products
-9.50
2.08
5500
1864
grain, sugar beets, potatoes, vegetables; meat, milk, eggs; fish
transshipment point for illicit drugs from Central and Southwest Asia and Latin America to Western Europe; limited producer of illicit opium; mostly for domestic consumption; also produces illicit amphetamines for export
1300
timber, textiles, dairy products
Russia, Germany, Sweden, UK, Lithuania
1700
fuels, cars, chemicals
Russia, Germany, Sweden, Ukraine, UK, Lithuania, Finland
?
ODA, $122 million (1993)
?
1 lat = 100 cents; introduced NA March 1993
0.54
calendar year
2412
2,379 km 1.520-m gauge (271 km electrified) (1992)
an NMT-450 analog cellular telephone network covers 75% of Latvia's population
international traffic carried by leased connection to the Moscow international gateway switch, through the new Ericsson digital telephone exchange in Riga, and through the Finnish cellular net; Sprint data network carries electronic mail
?
?
?
1400000
30
1100000
Ground Forces, Navy, Air and Air Defense Forces, Security Forces, Border Guard, Home Guard (Zemessardze)
#
583134
457067
16180
?
3
@Lebanon
0
0$Beyrouth$3389$3552$1100000$
1$Tripoli$3445$3583$240000$
#
(The) Lebanon was an important centre of the Phoenician civilization in the
third millenium BC. It formed 5 districts of the Turkish Ottoman Empire from
1516 until 1919. It was administered under French mandate from September
1920 until 1941. Independence was declared on 26 November 1941. Lebanon was
made a republic in 1943. Under the National Covenant of 1943, all public
positions were divided among the various religious communities, with
Christians in the majority. By the 1970's, Moslems formed the majority and
demanded a greater political and economic role. This led to instability, and
a state of civil war between the religious factions has existed since the
mid-70's.
Lebanon has made progress toward rebuilding its political
institutions and regaining its national sovereignty since the end of
the devastating 16-year civil war which began in 1975. Under the Ta'if
accord - the blueprint for national reconciliation - the Lebanese have
established a more equitable political system, particularly by giving
Muslims a greater say in the political process. Since December 1990,
the Lebanese have formed three cabinets and conducted the first
legislative election in 20 years. Most of the militias have been
weakened or disbanded. The Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) has seized vast
quantities of weapons used by the militias during the war and extended
central government authority over about one-half of the country.
Hizballah, the radical Sh'ia party, retains most of its weapons.
Foreign forces still occupy areas of Lebanon. Israel maintains troops
in southern Lebanon and continues to support a proxy militia, The Army
of South Lebanon (ASL), along a narrow stretch of territory contiguous
to its border. The ASL's enclave encompasses this self-declared
security zone and about 20 kilometers north to the strategic town of
Jazzine. As of December 1993, Syria maintained about 30,000-35,000
troops in Lebanon. These troops are based mainly in Beirut, North
Lebanon, and the Bekaa Valley. Syria's deployment was legitimized by
the Arab League early in Lebanon's civil war and in the Ta'if accord.
Citing the continued weakness of the LAF, Beirut's requests, and
failure of the Lebanese Government to implement all of the
constitutional reforms in the Ta'if accord, Damascus has so far
refused to withdraw its troops from Beirut.
#
RL
Middle East, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Israel and Syria
10400
10230
454
Israel 79 km, Syria 375 km
225
?
?
?
?
12
Israeli troops in southern Lebanon since June 1982; Syrian troops in northern, central, and eastern Lebanon since October 1976
Mediterranean; mild to cool, wet winters with hot, dry summers; Lebanon mountains experience heavy winter snows
narrow coastal plain; Al Biqa' (Bekaa Valley) separates Lebanon and Anti-Lebanon Mountains
Mediterranean Sea 0 m
Jabal al Makmal 3,087 m
limestone, iron ore, salt, water-surplus state in a water-deficit region
21
9
1
8
61
860
deforestation; soil erosion; desertification; air pollution in Beirut from vehicular traffic and the burning of industrial wastes; pollution of coastal waters from raw sewage and oil spills
dust storms, sandstorms
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Environmental Modification, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation
3776317
36
687631
662100
59
1049689
1163255
5
98406
115236
2.16
27.93
6.35
0
1.05
1.04
0.90
0.85
0.95
36.70
69.99
67.49
72.62
3.24
Lebanese (singular and plural)
Lebanese
Arab 95%, Armenian 4%, other 1%
#
Islam 70% (5 legally recognized Islamic groups - Alawite or Nusayri, Druze, Isma'ilite, Shi'a, Sunni), Christian 30% (11 legally recognized Christian groups - 4 Orthodox Christian, 6 Catholic, 1 Protestant), Judaism NEGL%
Arabic (official), French (official), Armenian, English
92.40
94.70
90.30
Republic of Lebanon
Lebanon
Al Jumhuriyah al Lubnaniyah
none
republic
Beirut
5 governorates (muhafazat, singular - muhafazah); Al Biqa', Al Janub, Ash Shamal, Bayrut, Jabal Lubnan
Independence: 22 November 1943 (from League of Nations mandate under French administration)
#
?
Independence Day, 22 November (1943)
23 May 1926, amended a number of times
mixture of Ottoman law, canon law, Napoleonic code, and civil law; no judicial review of legislative acts; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
21 years of age; compulsory for all males; authorized for women at age 21 with elementary education
President Ilyas HARAWI (since 24 November 1989) was elected for a six-year term by the National Assembly and in 1995 the National Assembly amended the constitution to extend his term by three years; note - by custom, the president is a Maronite Christian, the prime minister is a Sunni Muslim, and the speaker of the legislature is a Shi'a Muslim
Prime Minister Rafiq al-HARIRI (since 22 October 1992) and Deputy Prime Minister Michel al-MURR (since NA) were appointed by the president in consultation with the National Assembly
#
Cabinet was chosen by the prime minister in consultation with the members of the National Assembly; the current Cabinet was formed in 1995
#
unicameral
National Assembly (Arabic - Majlis Alnuwab, French - Assembl: elections last held in the summer of 1992 (next to be held NA 1996); results - percent of vote NA; seats - (128 total, one-half Christian and one-half Muslim) independents 128
#
four Courts of Cassation (three courts for civil and commercial cases and one court for criminal cases)
political party activity is organized along largely sectarian lines; numerous political groupings exist, consisting of individual political figures and followers motivated by religious, clan, and economic considerations
three horizontal bands of red (top), white (double width), and red with a green and brown cedar tree centered in the white band
The 1975-91 civil war seriously damaged Lebanon's economic infrastructure, cut national output by half, and all but ended Lebanon's position as a Middle Eastern entrepot and banking hub. Peace has enabled the central government to restore control in Beirut, begin collecting taxes, and regain access to key port and government facilities. Economic recovery has been helped by a financially sound banking system and resilient small- and medium-scale manufacturers. Family remittances, banking services, manufactured and farm exports, and international aid are the main sources of foreign exchange. In the relatively settled year of 1991, industrial production, agricultural output, and exports showed substantial gains. The rebuilding of the war-ravaged country was delayed in 1992 because of an upturn in political wrangling. In October 1992, Rafiq al-HARIRI was appointed prime minister. A billionaire entrepreneur, al-HARIRI, announced ambitious plans for Lebanon's reconstruction, which involve a substantial influx of foreign aid and investment. The economy has posted considerable gains since 1992, with GDP rebounding, inflation falling, and foreign capital inflows jumping. Signs of strain have emerged in recent years, however, as the government budget deficit has risen and grassroots economic dissatisfaction has grown. Meantime, the future fate of Lebanon and its economy is being determined largely by outside forces - in Syria, other Arab nations, Israel, and the West.
#
6.50
2670
10083
13
28
59
9
650000
services 60%, industry 28%, agriculture 12% (1990 est.)
30
1400
3200.00
banking, food processing, textiles, cement, oil refining, chemicals, jewelry, some metal fabricating
illicit producer of hashish and heroin for the international drug trade; hashish production is shipped to Western Europe, the Middle East, and North and South America; a key locus of cocaine processing and trafficking; a Lebanese/Syrian 1994 eradication campaign practically eliminated the opium crop and caused a 50% decrease in the cannabis crop
1000
agricultural products, chemicals, textiles, precious and semiprecious metals and jewelry, metals and metal products
Saudi Arabia 13%, Switzerland 12%, UAE 11%, Syria 9%, US 5%
7300
consumer goods, machinery and transport equipment, petroleum products
Italy 14%, France 9%, US 8%, Turkey 5%, Saudi Arabia 3%
1200
ODA, $NA
?
1 Lebanese pound (úL) = 100 piasters
1584
calendar year
222
222 km 1.435-m (from Beirut to the Syrian border)
7370
6,265 km
1,105 km (1990 est.)
?
72
?
?
Al Batrun, Al Mina, An Naqurah, Antilyas, Az Zahrani, Beirut, Jubayl, Juniyah, Shikka, Sidon, Tripoli, Tyre
satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Indian Ocean and 1 Atlantic Ocean) (erratic operations); coaxial cable to Syria; microwave radio relay to Syria but inoperable beyond Syria to Jordan; 3 submarine coaxial cables
5
3
1
2370000
13
1100000
Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF; includes Army, Navy, and Air Force)
#
889517
553538
?
278000000
5.50
@Lesotho
0
0$Maseru$-2932$2748$240000$
#
Chief Moshesh united the Sotho and Nguni tribes against invading Zulus and
Boers at the start of the 19th century. He sought and gained British help in
1868, when Basutoland, as it was then known, was made a protectorate. It was
annexed to Cape Colony in 1871, and made a crown colony in 1884.
Independence was gained on 4 October 1966. Head of state is King Moshesh II.
The National Assembly has 93 elected members, and the Senate is made up of
33 chiefs.
Lesotho is divided into 10 districts.
#
LS
Southern Africa, an enclave of South Africa
30350
30350
909
South Africa 909 km
0
?
?
?
?
?
none
temperate; cool to cold, dry winters; hot, wet summers
mostly highland with plateaus, hills, and mountains
junction of the Orange and Makhaleng Rivers 1,400 m
Mount Thabana Ntlenyana 3,482 m
water, agricultural and grazing land, some diamonds and other minerals
10
0
66
0
24
?
population pressure forcing settlement in marginal areas results in overgrazing, severe soil erosion, soil exhaustion; desertification; Highlands Water Project will control, store, and redirect water to South Africa
periodic droughts
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Desertification, Marine Life Conservation, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping
1970781
41
404733
402813
54
519493
553618
5
37237
52887
1.90
32.70
13.74
0
1.03
1
0.94
0.70
0.95
81.60
52.08
50.08
54.14
4.32
Mosotho (singular), Basotho (plural)
Basotho
Sotho 99.7%, Europeans 1,600, Asians 800
#
Christian 80%, rest indigenous beliefs
Sesotho (southern Sotho), English (official), Zulu, Xhosa
based on English common law and Roman-Dutch law; judicial review of legislative acts in High Court and Court of Appeal; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
21 years of age; universal
King LETSIE III (since 7 February 1996); the king is the former Crown Prince David Monato BERENG Seeiso and succeeded his father King MOSHOESHOE II, who died in an automobile accident on 16 January 1996; King LETSIE III formerly occupied the throne (November 1990 to February 1995) while his father was in exile
Prime Minister Ntsu MOKHEHLE (since 2 April 1993)
#
Cabinet
#
bicameral Parliament
Senate: consists of 33 members (the 22 principal chiefs and 11 other members appointed by the ruling party)
Assembly: members elected by popular vote; election last held NA March 1993 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats (65 total) BCP 65
#
High Court; Court of Appeal; Magistrate's Court; customary or traditional court
Basotho National Party (BNP), Evaristus SEKHONYANA; Basotho Congress Party (BCP), Ntsu MOKHEHLE; National Independent Party (NIP), A. C. MANYELI; Marematlou Freedom Party (MFP), Vincent MALEBO; United Democratic Party, Charles MOFELI; Communist Party of Lesotho (CPL), Jacob M. KENA
divided diagonally from the lower hoist side corner; the upper half is white bearing the brown silhouette of a large shield with crossed spear and club; the lower half is a diagonal blue band with a green triangle in the corner
Small, landlocked, and mountainous, Lesotho has no important natural resources other than water. Its economy is based on agriculture, light manufacturing, and remittances from laborers employed in South Africa (these remittances supplement domestic income by as much as 45%). The great majority of households gain their livelihoods from subsistence farming and migrant labor; a large portion of the adult male work force is employed in South African mines. Manufacturing depends largely on farm products which support the milling, canning, leather, and jute industries. Although drought has decreased agricultural activity over the past few years, improvement of a major hydropower facility will permit the sale of water to South Africa and will support the economy's continued expansion.
#
13.50
770
1518
10.40
48.80
40.80
9.50
689000
86.2% of resident population engaged in subsistence agriculture; roughly 60% of the active male wage earners work in South Africa
South Africa 39%, EC 22%, North and South America 33% (1993)
1000
mainly corn, building materials, clothing, vehicles, machinery, medicines, petroleum products
South Africa 83%, Asia 12%, EC 3% (1993)
512
ODA, $NA
?
1 loti (L) = 100 lisente
3.64
1 April - 31 March
2.60
2.6 km 1.067-m gauge
5324
799 km
4,525 km (1993 est.)
?
?
?
?
none
?
?
?
?
29
1
?
?
1
23
?
?
?
4
?
?
12000
consists of a few landlines, a small microwave radio relay system, and a minor radiotelephone communication system
satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean)
3
4
0
66000
1
11000
Lesotho Defense Force (LDF; includes Army and Air Wing), Lesotho Mounted Police
#
455218
245774
?
?
?
@Liberia
0
0$Monrovia$630$-1078$600000$
#
Liberia originated in 1822 as a home for freed Afro-American slaves on land
purchased for this purpose by the American Colonization Society. On 26 July
1847 it became the first independent republic in Africa. A coup in 1980
replaced the civilian government by a military-led one. Subsequent coups and
unrest led to civil war in the late 80's, continuing into the 90's.
Liberia is divided into 9 administrative regions.
#
LB
Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Cote d'Ivoire and Sierra Leone
111370
96320
1585
Guinea 563 km, Cote d'Ivoire 716 km, Sierra Leone 306 km
579
?
?
?
?
200
none
tropical; hot, humid; dry winters with hot days and cool to cold nights; wet, cloudy summers with frequent heavy showers
mostly flat to rolling coastal plains rising to rolling plateau and low mountains in northeast
Atlantic Ocean 0 m
Mount Wuteve 1,380 m
iron ore, timber, diamonds, gold
1
3
2
39
55
20
tropical rain forest subject to deforestation; soil erosion; loss of biodiversity; pollution of rivers from the dumping of iron ore tailings and of coastal waters from oil residue and raw sewage
dust-laden harmattan winds blow from the Sahara (December to March)
party to - Endangered Species, Nuclear Test Ban, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Tropical Timber 94; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Environmental Modification, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation
2109789
45
475138
470970
52
557855
532143
3
35544
38139
2.13
42.72
11.95
-9.48
1.03
1.01
1.05
0.93
1.03
108.10
58.59
56.05
61.22
6.23
Liberian(s)
Liberian
indigenous African tribes 95% (including Kpelle, Bassa, Gio, Kru, Grebo, Mano, Krahn, Gola, Gbandi, Loma, Kissi, Vai, and Bella), Americo-Liberians 5% (descendants of former slaves)
#
traditional 70%, Muslim 20%, Christian 10%
English 20% (official), Niger-Congo language group about 20 local languages come from this group
38.30
53.90
22.40
Republic of Liberia
Liberia
?
?
republic
Monrovia
13 counties; Bomi, Bong, Grand Bassa, Grand Cape Mount, Grand Gedeh, Grand Kru, Lofa, Margibi, Maryland, Montserrado, Nimba, River Cess, Sinoe
Independence: 26 July 1847
#
?
Independence Day, 26 July (1847)
6 January 1986
dual system of statutory law based on Anglo-American common law for the modern sector and customary law based on unwritten tribal practices for indigenous sector
18 years of age; universal
Chairman of the Council of State Wilton SANKAWULO (since NA September 1995); president was to be elected for a six-year term by universal suffrage at the end of 1995; election last held 15 October 1985 (next to be held NA August 1996); results - Samuel Kanyon DOE (NDPL) 50.9%, Jackson DOE (LAP) 26.4%, other 22.7%
?
#
Cabinet was selected by the leaders of the major factions in the civil war
#
unicameral Transitional Legislative Assembly, the members of which are appointed by the leaders of the major factions in the civil war
note: the former bicameral legislature no longer exists and is unlikely to be reconstituted soon
#
Supreme Court
National Democratic Party of Liberia (NDPL), Augustus CAINE, chairman; Liberian Action Party (LAP), Emmanuel KOROMAH, chairman; Unity Party (UP), Joseph KOFA, chairman; United People's Party (UPP), Gabriel Baccus MATTHEWS, chairman; National Patriotic Party (NPP), Charles TAYLOR, chairman; Liberian Peoples Party (LPP), Dusty WOLOKOLLIE, chairman
11 equal horizontal stripes of red (top and bottom) alternating with white; there is a white five-pointed star on a blue square in the upper hoist-side corner; the design was based on the US flag
Civil war since 1990 has destroyed much of Liberia's economy, especially the infrastructure in and around Monrovia. Businessmen have fled the country, taking capital and expertise with them. Many will not return. Richly endowed with water, mineral resources, forests, and a climate favorable to agriculture, Liberia had been a producer and exporter of basic products, while local manufacturing, mainly foreign owned, had been small in scope. Political instability threatens prospects for economic reconstruction and repatriation of some 750,000 Liberian refugees who have fled to neighboring countries. The continued political turmoil has prevented restoration of normal economic life, including the re-establishment of a strong central government with effective economic development programs. The economy deteriorated further in 1995.
#
0
200
422
?
?
?
50
510000
agriculture 70.5%, services 10.8%, industry and commerce 4.5%, other 14.2%
?
225
285
rubber processing, food processing, construction materials, furniture, palm oil processing, iron ore, diamonds
satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean)
3
4
0
622000
5
51000
NA; the ultimate structure of the Liberian military force will depend on who is the victor in the ongoing civil war
#
479274
256200
?
14000000
2.90
@Libya
0
0$Tripoli$3289$1319$1200000$
1$Benghazi$3217$2010$750000$
1$Misurata$3217$1505$360000$
#
First settled by the Berbers, Libya was subsequently ruled by Carthage,
Rome, Vandals, and Arabs. It was part of the Ottoman Empire from the 16th
century until 1911, when the it became an Italian colony. Control passed to
Britain and France after the Second World War. Libya was declared a
constitutional monarchy on 2 January 1952. The monarchy was overthrown by a
military junta, on 1 September 1969. Libya is now an islam-based people's
republic.
It is divided into 3 regions, subdivided into 10 muhπfazπt.
#
LAR
Northern Africa, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Egypt and Tunisia
1759540
1759540
4383
Algeria 982 km, Chad 1,055 km, Egypt 1,150 km, Niger 354 km, Sudan 383 km, Tunisia 459 km
1770
?
?
?
?
12
the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled in February 1994 that the 100,000 sq km Aozou Strip between Chad and Libya belongs to Chad and that Libya must withdraw from it by 31 May 1994; Libya has withdrawn some of its forces in response to the ICJ ruling, but still maintains part of the airfield and a small military presence at the airfield's water supply located in Chad; maritime boundary dispute with Tunisia; claims part of northern Niger and part of southeastern Algeria
Mediterranean along coast; dry, extreme desert interior
mostly barren, flat to undulating plains, plateaus, depressions
Sabkhat Ghuzayyil -47 m
Bikku Bitti 2,267 m
petroleum, natural gas, gypsum
2
0
8
0
90
2420
desertification; very limited natural fresh water resources; the Great Manmade River Project, the largest water development scheme in the world, is being built to bring water from large aquifers under the Sahara to coastal cities
hot, dry, dust-laden ghibli is a southern wind lasting one to four days in spring and fall; dust storms, sandstorms
party to - Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Desertification, Law of the Sea
5445436
48
1319696
1274865
49
1375441
1308613
3
87434
79387
3.67
44.42
7.70
0
1.05
1.04
1.05
1.10
1.04
59.50
64.67
62.48
66.97
6.26
Libyan(s)
Libyan
Berber and Arab 97%, Greeks, Maltese, Italians, Egyptians, Pakistanis, Turks, Indians, Tunisians
#
Sunni Muslim 97%
Arabic, Italian, English, all are widely understood in the major cities
76.20
87.90
63
Socialist People's Libyan Arab Jamahiriya
Libya
Al Jumahiriyah al Arabiyah al Libiyah ash Shabiyah al Ishtirakiyah
none
Jamahiriya (a state of the masses) in theory, governed by the populace through local councils; in fact, a military dictatorship
Tripoli
25 municipalities (baladiyah, singular - baladiyat); Ajdabiya, Al 'Aziziyah, Al Fatih, Al Jabal al Akhdar, Al Jufrah, Al Khums, Al Kufrah, An Nuqat al Khams, Ash Shati', Awbari, Az Zawiyah, Banghazi, Darnah, Ghadamis, Gharyan, Misratah, Murzuq, Sabha, Sawfajjin, Surt, Tarabulus, Tarhunah, Tubruq, Yafran, Zlitan
note: the 25 muncipalities may have been replaced by 1,500 communes in 1992
Independence: 24 December 1951 (from Italy)
#
?
Revolution Day, 1 September (1969)
11 December 1969, amended 2 March 1977
based on Italian civil law system and Islamic law; separate religious courts; no constitutional provision for judicial review of legislative acts; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
18 years of age; universal and compulsory
Revolutionary Leader Col. Muammar Abu Minyar al-QADHAFI (since 1 September 1969) was elected by the General People's Congress
Secretary of the General People's Committee (Premier) Abd al Majid al-QA'UD (since 29 January 1994)
#
General People's Committee was established by the General People's Congress
note: national elections are indirect through a hierarchy of peoples' committees
#
unicameral
General People's Congress: national elections are indirect through a hierarchy of peoples' committees
#
Supreme Court
none
#
various Arab nationalist movements with almost negligible memberships may be functioning clandestinely, as well as some Islamic elements
plain green; green is the traditional color of Islam (the state religion)
The socialist-oriented economy depends primarily upon revenues from the oil sector, which contributes practically all export earnings and about one-third of GDP. In 1990 per capita GDP was the highest in Africa at $5,410, but subsequently GDP growth has slowed on average and has fluctuated sharply in response to changes in the world oil market. Import restrictions and inefficient resource allocations have led to periodic shortages of basic goods and foodstuffs. The nonoil manufacturing and construction sectors, which account for about 20% of GDP, have expanded from processing mostly agricultural products to include the production of petrochemicals, iron, steel, and aluminum. Although agriculture accounts for only 5% of GDP, it employs 18% of the labor force. Climatic conditions and poor soils severely limit farm output, and Libya imports about 75% of its food requirements. The UN sanctions imposed in April 1992 have not yet had a major impact on the economy because Libya's oil revenues generate sufficient foreign exchange to sustain imports of food, consumer goods, and equipment for the oil industry and ongoing development projects.
#
-0.90
5650
30767
?
?
?
25
1000000
industry 31%, services 27%, government 24%, agriculture 18%
crude oil, refined petroleum products, natural gas
Italy, Germany, Spain, France, UK, Turkey, Greece, Egypt
6900
machinery, transport equipment, food, manufactured goods
Italy, Germany, UK, France, Spain, Turkey, Tunisia, Eastern Europe
3500
?
?
1 Libyan dinar (LD) = 1,000 dirhams
0.36
calendar year
?
19189
10,738 km
8,451 km (1987 est.)
?
4383
443
256
Al Khums, Banghazi, Darnah, Marsa al Burayqah, Misratah, Ra's Lanuf, Tobruk, Tripoli, Zuwarah
30
686834
1209263
cargo 10, chemical tanker 1, liquefied gas tanker 2, oil tanker 10, roll-on/roll-off cargo 3, short-sea passenger 4
130
24
5
22
6
13
4
3
15
38
?
?
370000
microwave radio relay, coaxial cable, tropospheric scatter, and a domestic satellite system with 14 earth stations
satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean); planned Arabsat and Intersputnik satellite earth stations; submarine cables to France and Italy; microwave radio relay to Tunisia and Egypt; tropospheric scatter to Greece; participant in Medarabtel
17
3
0
1000000
12
500000
Armed Peoples of the Libyan Arab Jamahiriyah (includes Army, Navy, and Air and Air Defense Command), Police
#
1170100
696288
56834
1400000000
6.10
@Liechtenstein
0
0$Vaduz$4714$952$6000$
#
Liechtenstein was formed in 1719 by uniting the lordships of Schellenburg
and Vaduz. It became sovereign in 1866. The constitution dates from October
1921. A customs union was formed with Switzerland in 1924. Liechtenstein is
closely linked both economically and politically with Switzerland, which
represents the principality diplomatically. The parliament (Landtag) has 15
members, with general elections every 4 years. 5 of these members are
nominated by the prince as cabinet ministers. Women were first allowed to
vote in the general elections of 1986.
Liechtenstein is divided into two districts (Oberland, and Unterland) with a total of 11 communities.
#
FL
Central Europe, between Austria and Switzerland
160
160
78
Austria 37 km, Switzerland 41 km
0
?
?
?
?
?
claims 1,600 square kilometers of Czech territory confiscated from its royal family in 1918; the Czech Republic insists that restitution does not go back before February 1948, when the communists seized power
continental; cold, cloudy winters with frequent snow or rain; cool to moderately warm, cloudy, humid summers
mostly mountainous (Alps) with Rhine Valley in western third
Ruggleller Riet 430 m
Grauspitz 2,599 m
hydroelectric potential
25
0
38
19
18
?
NA
NA
party to - Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Biodiversity, Law of the Sea
31122
19
2961
2871
70
10775
11113
11
1366
2036
1.08
11.47
6.81
6.11
1.14
1.03
0.97
0.67
0.94
5.30
78.84
75.92
82.17
1.37
Liechtensteiner(s)
Liechtenstein
Alemannic 95%, Italian and other 5%
#
Roman Catholic 87.3%, Protestant 8.3%, unknown 1.6%, other 2.8% (1988)
Independence: 23 January 1719 (Imperial Principality of Liechtenstein established)
#
?
Assumption Day, 15 August
5 October 1921
local civil and penal codes; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with reservations
20 years of age; universal
Prince Hans ADAM II (since 13 November 1989, who is a hereditary monarch, assumed executive powers 26 August 1984); Heir Apparent Prince ALOIS von und zu Liechtenstein (born 11 June 1968)
Mario FRICK (since 15 December 1993) and Deputy Head of Government Dr. Thomas BUECHEL (since 15 December 1993) were elected by the Landtag for a four-year term and confirmed by the prince
#
Cabinet was elected by the Diet; confirmed by the prince
#
unicameral
Diet (Landtag): elections last held on 24 October 1993 (next to be held by March 1997); results - VU 50.1%, FBP 41.3%, FL 8.5%; seats - (25 total) VU 13, FBP 11, FL 1
#
Supreme Court (Oberster Gerichtshof) for criminal cases; Superior Court (Obergericht) for civil cases
Fatherland Union (VU), Dr. Oswald KRANTZ; Progressive Citizens' Party (FBP), Otmar HASLER; The Free List (FL)
#
?
#
CE, EBRD, ECE, EFTA, IAEA, ICRM, IFRCS, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, ITU, OSCE, PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UPU, WCL, WIPO, WTrO
two equal horizontal bands of blue (top) and red with a gold crown on the hoist side of the blue band
Despite its small size and limited natural resources, Liechtenstein has developed into a prosperous, highly industrialized, free-enterprise economy with a vital service sector and living standards on par with the urban areas of its large European neighbors. Low business taxes - the maximum tax rate is 18% - and easy incorporation rules have induced about 25,000 holding or so-called letter box companies to establish nominal offices in Liechtenstein, providing 30% of state revenues. The country participates in a customs union with Switzerland and uses the Swiss franc as its national currency. Liechtenstein plans to join the European Economic Area (an organization serving as a bridge between EFTA and EU) in 1995.
#
?
35000
1089
?
?
?
5.40
20000
industry, trade, and building 48.1%, services 50.2%, agriculture, fishing, forestry, and horticulture 1.7% (1993)
small specialty machinery, dental products, stamps, hardware, pottery
EC countries 42.7%, EFTA countries 20.9% (Switzerland 15.4%), other 36.4% (1990)
?
machinery, metal goods, textiles, foodstuffs, motor vehicles
NA
?
?
?
1 Swiss franc, franken, or franco (SwF) = 100 centimes, rappen, or centesimi
1.18
calendar year
18.50
18.5 km 1.435-m gauge (electrified)
238
238 km
0 km (1986 est.)
?
?
?
?
none
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
18916
NA
linked to Swiss networks by cable and microwave radio relay
?
?
?
11000
?
10620
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
@Lithuania
0
0$Vilnius$5464$2533$592000$
#
#
LT
Eastern Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea, between Latvia and Russia
65200
65200
1273
Belarus 502 km, Latvia 453 km, Poland 91 km, Russia (Kaliningrad) 227 km
108
?
?
?
?
12
dispute with Russia (Kaliningrad Oblast) over the position of the Nemunas (Nemen) River border presently located on the Lithuanian bank and not in midriver as by international standards; disputes maritime border with Latvia (primary concern is oil exploration rights); treaty with Belarus defining the border awaits ratification
maritime; wet, moderate winters and summers
lowland, many scattered small lakes, fertile soil
Baltic Sea 0 m
Juozapine Kalnas 292 m
peat
49
0
22
16
13
430
contamination of soil and groundwater with petroleum products and chemicals at military bases
NA
party to - Climate Change, Ship Pollution, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Ozone Layer Protection
3646041
22
400823
384592
66
1162626
1244103
12
154862
299035
-0.35
12.93
13.33
-3.09
1.05
1.04
0.94
0.52
0.89
17
68.03
62.15
74.21
1.78
Lithuanian(s)
Lithuanian
Lithuanian 80.1%, Russian 8.6%, Polish 7.7%, Byelorussian 1.5%, other 2.1%
#
Roman Catholic, Lutheran, other
Lithuanian (official), Polish, Russian
98
99
98
Republic of Lithuania
Lithuania
Lietuvos Respublika
Lietuva
republic
Vilnius
44 regions (rajonai, singular - rajonas) and 11 municipalities*: Akmenes Rajonas, Alytaus Rajonas, Alytus*, Anyksciu Rajonas, Birsionas*, Birzu Rajonas, Druskininkai*, Ignalinos Rajonas, Jonavos Rajonas, Joniskio Rajonas, Jurbarko Rajonas, Kaisiadoriu Rajonas, Marijampoles Rajonas, Kaunas*, Kauno Rajonas, Kedainiu Rajonas, Kelmes Rajonas, Klaipeda*, Klaipedos Rajonas, Kretingos Rajonas, Kupiskio Rajonas, Lazdiju Rajonas, Marijampole*, Mazeikiu Rajonas, Moletu Rajonas, Neringa* Pakruojo Rajonas, Palanga*, Panevezio Rajonas, Panevezys*, Pasvalio Rajonas, Plunges Rajonas, Prienu Rajonas, Radviliskio Rajonas, Raseiniu Rajonas, Rokiskio Rajonas, Sakiu Rajonas, Salcininky Rajonas, Siauliai*, Siauliu Rajonas, Silales Rajonas, Siltues Rajonas, Sirvinty Rajonas, Skuodo Rajonas, Svencioniu Rajonas, Taurages Rajonas, Telsiu Rajonas, Traky Rajonas, Ukmerges Rajonas, Utenos Rajonas, Varenos Rajonas, Vilkaviskio Rajonas, Vilniaus Rajonas, Vilnius*, Zarasu Rajonas
Independence: 6 September 1991 (from Soviet Union)
#
?
Independence Day, 16 February (1918)
adopted 25 October 1992
based on civil law system; no judicial review of legislative acts
18 years of age; universal
President Algirdas Mykolas BRAZAUSKAS (since 25 November 1992; elected acting president by Parliament 25 November 1992 and elected by direct vote 15 February 1993) was elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 14 February 1993 (next to be held spring 1997); results - Algirdas BRAZAUSKAS was elected; percent of vote NA
Premier Mindaugas STANKEVICIUS (since 15 February 1996) was appointed by the president on approval of the Seimas
#
Council of Ministers was appointed by the president on the nomination of the prime minister
#
unicameral
Seimas (parliament): elections last held 26 October and 25 November 1992 (next to be held NA October 1996); results - LDDP 51%; seats - (141 total) LDDP 73, Conservative Party 30, LKDP 17, LTS 8, Farmers' Union 4, LLS 4, Center Union 2, others 3
#
Supreme Court, judges appointed by the Seimas; Court of Appeal, judges appointed by the Seimas
Christian Democratic Party (LKDP), Algirdas SAUDARGAS, chairman; Democratic Labor Party of Lithuania (LDDP), Mindaugas STANKEVICIUS , chairman; Lithuanian Nationalist Union (LTS), Rimantas SMETONA, chairman; Lithuanian Social Democratic Party (LSDP), Aloyzas SAKALAS, chairman; Farmers' Union, Jonas CIULEVICIUS, chairman; Center Union, Romualdas OZOLAS, chairman; Homeland Union/Conservative Party, Vytautas LANDSBERGIS, chairman; Lithuanian Polish Union (LLS), Rytardas MACIEKIANIEC, chairman
three equal horizontal bands of yellow (top), green, and red
Since declaring independence in 1990, Lithuania has implemented reforms aimed at eliminating the vestiges of the former socialist system. With the help of the IMF and other international institutions, the government has adopted a disciplined program to restrain inflation, reduce price controls, lower the budget deficit and privatize the economy. Lithuania has embarked on a series of price liberalizations; most price controls have been abolished. More than two-thirds of its industrial facilities as well as most housing and agricultural enterprises have been privatized, although important "strategic" enterprises have been exempted from privatization - namely energy and telecommunications. While Lithuania has reduced its trade dependence on Russia and other republics of the FSU from 85% in 1991 to about 40% in 1995, Russia remains Lithuania's leading trading partner. Lithuania has made great strides in reducing its annual rate of inflation - from over 1,100% in 1992 to about 35% in 1995. Production bottomed out in 1994-95. A banking crisis beginning in September, during which central bank reserves dropped one-third, held back growth in 1995. If the government can stay the course on economic reform and fiscal discipline - which may be politically difficult in the election year of 1996 - Lithuania could be set for strong economic growth in the near term. As for real resources, Lithuania's growth depends largely on its ability to exploit its strategic location - with its ice-free port at Klaipeda and its rail and highway hub in Vilnius connecting it with Eastern Europe, Belarus, Russia, and Ukraine. Lacking important natural resources, it will remain dependent on imports of fuels and raw materials.
#
1
2050
7474
20
42
38
35
1836000
industry and construction 42%, agriculture and forestry 18%, other 40% (1990)
6.10
?
?
metal-cutting machine tools, electric motors, television sets, refrigerators and freezers, petroleum refining, shipbuilding (small ships), furniture making, textiles, food processing, fertilizers, agricultural machinery, optical equipment, electronic components, computers, amber
?
6.19
18900
4608
grain, potatoes, sugar beets, vegetables; meat, milk, eggs; fish
transshipment point for illicit drugs from Central and Southwest Asia and Latin America to Western Europe; limited producer of illicit opium; mostly for domestic consumption
an NMT-450 analog cellular telephone network operates in Vilnius and other cities; landlines and microwave radio relay connect switching centers
international connections no longer depend on the Moscow international gateway switch, but are established by satellite through Oslo from Vilnius and through Copenhagen from Kaunas; satellite earth stations - 1 Eutelsat and 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean); cellular network linked internationally through Copenhagen by Eutelsat; international electronic mail is available; landlines or microwave radio relay to former Soviet republics
13
26
1
1420000
3
1770000
Ground Forces, Navy, Air and Air Defense Force, Security Forces (internal and border troops), National Guard (Skat)
#
903437
712875
26162
31700000
1
@Luxembourg
0
0$Luxembourg$4961$615$81000$
#
Luxembourg, founded in 963, was ruled by Burgundy, Spain, Austria, and
France from 1448 until 1815, when the Wener Congress made it a grand duchy.
It was part of the Germanic Confederation until 1866. The western part of
the country was ceded to Belgium in 1839 (the Belgian province of
Luxembourg). Disputes over the ownership of Luxembourg, between the
Netherlands and Germany, were solved in 1867 when it was decided at the
London Conference that the country would remain a politically neutral area
associated with the Netherlands. This union ended in 1890 when Wilhelmina,
as a woman, was unable to inherit the Luxembourg crown, which passed to
Count Adolf van Nassau. A customs and trade union with Belgium and the
Netherlands was adopted in 1948 (Benelux), ending Luxembourg's neutrality.
The parliament has 59 members, chosen by general election for a 5-year term.
Some legislative tasks are carried out by the State Council, consisting of
21 members nominated for life by the grand duke. The cabinet is made up of a
premier and at least 3 ministers.
#
L
Western Europe, between France and Germany
2586
2586
359
Belgium 148 km, France 73 km, Germany 138 km
0
?
?
?
?
?
none
modified continental with mild winters, cool summers
mostly gently rolling uplands with broad, shallow valleys; uplands to slightly mountainous in the north; steep slope down to Moselle floodplain in the southeast
Moselle River 133 m
Burgplatz 559 m
iron ore (no longer exploited)
24
1
20
21
34
?
deforestation; air and water pollution in urban areas
NA
party to - Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Desertification, Environmental Modification, Law of the Sea
415870
18
39199
37239
68
142394
138349
14
23118
35571
1.57
13.14
8.32
10.93
1.09
1.05
1.03
0.65
0.97
4.70
78.26
75.24
81.56
1.76
Luxembourger(s)
Luxembourg
Celtic base (with French and German blend), Portuguese, Italian, and European (guest and worker residents)
#
Roman Catholic 97%, Protestant and Jewish 3%
Luxembourgisch, German, French, English
100
100
100
Grand Duchy of Luxembourg
Luxembourg
Grand-Duche de Luxembourg
Luxembourg
constitutional monarchy
Luxembourg
3 districts; Diekirch, Grevenmacher, Luxembourg
Independence: 1839
#
?
National Day, 23 June (1921) (public celebration of the Grand Duke's birthday)
17 October 1868, occasional revisions
based on civil law system; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
18 years of age; universal and compulsory
Grand Duke JEAN (since 12 November 1964) is a hereditary monarch; Heir Apparent Prince HENRI (son of Grand Duke JEAN, born 16 April 1955)
Prime Minister Jean-Claude JUNCKER (since 1 January 1995) and Vice Prime Minister Jacques F. POOS (since 21 July 1984) were appointed by the sovereign but are responsible to the legislature
#
Council of Ministers was appointed by the sovereign, responsible to the legislature
#
unicameral
Chamber of Deputies (Chambre des Deputes): elections last held 12 June 1994 (next to be held by June 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (60 total) CSV 21, LSAP 17, DP 12, Action Committee for Democracy and Pension Rights 5, Greens 5
note: the Council of State (Conseil d'Etat) is an advisory body whose views are considered by the Chamber of Deputies
#
Superior Court of Justice (Cour Superieure de Justice), judges are appointed for life by the Grand Duke
Christian Social People's Party (CSV), Erna HENNICOT-SCHOEPGES; Luxembourg Socialist Workers' Party (LSAP), Ben FAYOT; Democratic Party (DP), Henri GRETHEN; Action Committee for Democracy and Pension Rights, Roby MEHLEN; the Green Alternative, Abbes JACOBY; other minor parties
#
group of steel companies representing iron and steel industry; Centrale Paysanne representing agricultural producers; Christian and Socialist labor unions; Federation of Industrialists; Artisans and Shopkeepers Federation
three equal horizontal bands of red (top), white, and light blue; similar to the flag of the Netherlands, which uses a darker blue and is shorter; design was based on the flag of France
The stable, prosperous economy features moderate growth, low inflation, and negligible unemployment. Agriculture is based on small but highly productive family-owned farms. The industrial sector, until recently dominated by steel, has become increasingly more diversified, particularly toward high-technology firms. During the past decade, growth in the financial sector has more than compensated for the decline in steel. Services, especially banking, account for a growing proportion of the economy. Luxembourg participates in an economic union with Belgium on trade and most financial matters, is also closely connected economically to the Netherlands, and, as a member of the EU, enjoys the advantages of the open European market.
#
2.60
43480
18082
1.40
33.70
64.90
3.60
200400
trade, restaurants, hotels 20%, mining, quarrying, manufacturing 18%, other market services 17%, community, social, personal services 14%, construction 11%, finance, insurance, real estate, business services 9%, transport, storage, communications 7%, agriculture, hunting, forestry, fishing 3%, electricity, gas, water 1%
2.50
4000
4050
banking, iron and steel, food processing, chemicals, metal products, engineering, tires, glass, aluminum
Independence: none (territory of Portugal; Portugal signed an agreement with China on 13 April 1987 to return Macau to China on 20 December 1999; in the joint declaration, China promises to respect Macau's existing social and economic systems and lifestyle for 50 years after transition)
#
?
Day of Portugal, 10 June (1580)
17 February 1976, Organic Law of Macau; basic law drafted primarily by Beijing promulgated 31 March 1993
Portuguese civil law system
18 years of age; universal
President (of Portugal) Mario Alberto SOARES (since 9 March 1986)
Governor Gen. Vasco Joachim Rocha VIEIRA (since 20 March 1991) was appointed by the President of Portugal after consultation with the Legislative Assembly
#
Consultative Council consists of a total of 15 members - five appointed by the governor, two nominated by the governor, five elected for a four-year term (two represent administrative bodies, one represents moral, cultural, and welfare interests, and two represent economic interests), and three statutory members
#
unicameral
Legislative Assembly: elections last held 10 March 1991 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (23 total, 8 elected by direct vote, 8 by indirect vote, and 7 appointed by the governor) number of seats by party NA
#
Supreme Court, consisting of five magistrates including the president; lower court judges appointed for three years by governor
Association to Defend the Interests of Macau; Macau Democratic Center; Group to Study the Development of Macau; Macau Independent Group
#
wealthy Macanese and Chinese representing local interests, wealthy procommunist merchants representing China's interests; in January 1967 the Macau Government acceded to Chinese demands that gave China veto power over administration
The economy is based largely on tourism (including gambling) and textile and fireworks manufacturing. Efforts to diversify have spawned other small industries - toys, artificial flowers, and electronics. The tourist sector has accounted for roughly 25% of GDP, and the clothing industry has provided about two-thirds of export earnings; the gambling industry probably represents over 40% of GDP. Macau depends on China for most of its food, fresh water, and energy imports. Japan and Hong Kong are the main suppliers of raw materials and capital goods.
US 35%, Hong Kong 12.5%, Germany 12%, China 9.9%, France 8% (1992 est.)
2000
raw materials, foodstuffs, capital goods
Hong Kong 33%, China 20%, Japan 18% (1992 est.)
0
ODA, $NA
?
1 pataca (P) = 100 avos
8.03
calendar year
?
90
42 km
48 km (1987 est.)
?
?
?
?
Macau
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
170021
NA
HF radiotelephone communication facility; access to international communications carriers provided via Hong Kong and China; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean)
4
3
0
135000
0
34000
NA
#
142704
79225
?
?
?
@Macedonia
0
0$Skopje$4202$2147$550000$
#
#
MAK
Southeastern Europe, north of Greece
25333
24856
748
Albania 151 km, Bulgaria 148 km, Greece 228 km, Serbia and Montenegro 221 km (all with Serbia)
0
?
?
?
?
?
dispute with Greece over name; in September 1995, Skopje and Athens signed an interim accord resolving their dispute over symbols and certain constitutional provisions; Athens also lifted its economic embargo on the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia
hot, dry summers and autumns and relatively cold winters with heavy snowfall
mountainous territory covered with deep basins and valleys; there are three large lakes, each divided by a frontier line; country bisected by the Vardar River
adopted 17 November 1991, effective 20 November 1991
based on civil law system; judicial review of legislative acts
18 years of age; universal
President Kiro GLIGOROV (since 27 January 1991) was elected by the Assembly in 1991 and reelected by popular vote in 1994; election last held 16 October 1994 (next to be held NA 1997); results - percent of vote NA; note - following a failed assassination attempt on the president in October 1995, then Parliamentary Speaker Stojan ANDOV was acting president; GLIGOROV resumed his duties in early 1996
Prime Minister Branko CRVENKOVSKI (since 4 September 1992) was appointed by the president
#
Council of Ministers were elected by the majority vote of all the deputies in the Assembly; note - after the withdrawal of the Liberal Party from the ruling coalition in early 1996, the Council of Ministers was reorganized without LP participation
#
unicameral
Assembly (Sobranje): elections last held 16 and 30 October 1994 (next to be held NA November 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (120 total) SDSM 58, LP 29, SPM 8, PDP 10, NDP 4, independents 7, other 4
#
Constitutional Court, judges are elected by the Judicial Council; Judicial Court of the Republic, judges are elected by the Judicial Council
Social-Democratic Alliance of Macedonia (SDSM; former Communist Party), Branko CRVENKOVSKI, president; Party for Democratic Prosperity (PDP), Abdurahman HALITI, president; National Democratic Party (NDP), Ilijas HALINI, president; Alliance of Reform Forces of Macedonia - Liberal Party (SRSM-LP), Stojan ANDOV, president; Socialist Party of Macedonia (SPM), Kiro POPOVSKI, president; Internal Macedonian Revolutionary Organization - Democratic Party for Macedonian National Unity (VMRO-DPMNE), Ljupco GEORGIEVSKI, president; Party of Yugoslavs in Macedonia (SJM), Milan DURCINOV, president; Democratic Party (DP), Petar GOSEV, president; Party for Democratic Prosperity of Albanians (PDPA), Arben XHAFFERI, president
#
Movement for All Macedonian Action (MAAK); Democratic Party of Serbs; Democratic Party of Turks; Party for Democratic Action (Slavic Muslim)
a rising yellow sun with 8 rays extending to the edges of the red field
The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, although the poorest republic in the former Yugoslav federation, can meet basic food and energy needs through its own agricultural and coal resources. Its economic decline will continue unless ties are reforged or enlarged with its neighbors Serbia and Montenegro, Albania, Greece, and Bulgaria. The economy depends on outside sources for all of its oil and gas and most of its modern machinery and parts. An important supplement of GDP is the remittances from thousands of Macedonians working in Germany and other West European nations. The end of sanctions on Serbia and the lifting of the Greek embargo on Macedonia have reopened its natural trade corridors, but the country has been slow to capitalize on these opportunities. Moreover, the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia's geographical isolation, technological underdevelopment, and potential political instability place it far down the list of countries of interest to Western investors. An internal commitment to economic reform would encourage foreign investment over the long run.
limited illicit opium cultivation; transshipment point for Southwest Asian heroin
916.20
manufactured goods 40%, machinery and transport equipment 14%, miscellaneous manufactured articles 23%, raw materials 7.6%, food (rice) and live animals 5.7%, beverages and tobacco 4.5%, chemicals 4.7% (1990)
principally Serbia and Montenegro and the other former Yugoslav republics, Germany, Greece, Albania
199
fuels and lubricants 19%, manufactured goods 18%, machinery and transport equipment 15%, food and live animals 14%, chemicals 11.4%, raw materials 10%, miscellaneous manufactured articles 8.0%, beverages and tobacco 3.5% (1990)
other former Yugoslav republics, Greece, Albania, Germany, Bulgaria
737.10
ODA, $NA
?
the denar, which was adopted by the Macedonian legislature 26 April 1992, was initially issued in the form of a coupon pegged to the German mark; subsequently repegged to a basket of seven currencies
38.80
calendar year
699
699 km 1.435-m gauge (232 km electrified) (1995)
10591
5,091 km
5,500 km (1991 est.)
?
?
?
?
none
?
?
?
?
16
?
2
?
?
12
?
?
?
2
?
?
125000
NA
NA
6
2
0
369000
5
327011
Army, Navy, Air and Air Defense Forces, Police Force
#
571927
458231
16698
?
?
@Madagascar
0
0$Antananarivo$-1886$4750$802000$
1$Toamasina$-1817$4942$145000$
#
Malayan-Indonesian peoples settled in Madagascar 2000 years ago: their
descendants still predominate. The island was divided between several
kingdoms until 1817, when Radama I, king of the Merinas, was recognized as
king of Madagascar. It was made a French protectorate in 1895, became
autonomous in 1958, and fully independent in 1960. The president is chairman
of the Supreme Revolutionary Council, of which he nominates two-thirds of
the members. The remaining third is nominated by the National People's
Assembly, whose own 137 seats are filled by general election. The president
nominates the premier.
Madagascar is divided into 6 provinces.
#
RM
Southern Africa, island in the Indian Ocean, east of Mozambique
587040
581540
?
?
4828
24
200 nm or 100 nm from the 2,500-m isobath
200
?
12
claims Bassas da India, Europa Island, Glorioso Islands, Juan de Nova Island, and Tromelin Island (all administered by France)
tropical along coast, temperate inland, arid in south
narrow coastal plain, high plateau and mountains in center
Indian Ocean 0 m
Maromokotro 2,876 m
graphite, chromite, coal, bauxite, salt, quartz, tar sands, semiprecious stones, mica, fish
4
1
58
26
11
9000
soil erosion results from deforestation and overgrazing; desertification; surface water contaminated with raw sewage and other organic wastes; several species of flora and fauna unique to the island are endangered
periodic cyclones
party to - Endangered Species, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Desertification, Law of the Sea
13670507
45
3105958
3034279
52
3499021
3573052
3
224710
233487
2.83
42.63
14.38
0
1.03
1.02
0.98
0.96
1
93.50
52.19
51.11
53.30
5.89
Malagasy (singular and plural)
Malagasy
Malayo-Indonesian (Merina and related Betsileo), Cotiers (mixed African, Malayo-Indonesian, and Arab ancestry - Betsimisaraka, Tsimihety, Antaisaka, Sakalava), French, Indian, Creole, Comoran
#
indigenous beliefs 52%, Christian 41%, Muslim 7%
French (official), Malagasy (official)
80
88
73
Republic of Madagascar
Madagascar
Republique de Madagascar
Madagascar
republic
Antananarivo
6 provinces (faritany); Antananarivo, Antsiranana, Fianarantsoa, Mahajanga, Toamasina, Toliary
Independence: 26 June 1960 (from France)
#
?
Independence Day, 26 June (1960)
19 August 1992 by national referendum
based on French civil law system and traditional Malagasy law; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
18 years of age; universal
President Albert ZAFY (since 9 March 1993) was elected for a five-year term by popular vote; election last held 10 February 1993 (next to be held NA 1998); results - Albert ZAFY (UNDD) 67%; Didier RATSIRAKA (AREMA) 33%
Prime Minister Emmanuel RAKOTOVAHINY (since 30 October 1995) was elected by the National Assembly
#
Council of Ministers was appointed by the prime minister
#
bicameral Parliament
Senate (Senat): two-thirds of upper house seats are to be filled from popularly elected regional assemblies; the remaining third is to be filled by presidential appointment; decentralization and formation of regional assemblies is not expected before 1997
National Assembly (Assemblee Nationale): elections last held 16 June 1993 (next to be held NA June 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (138 total) CFV coalition 76, PMDM/MFM 16, CSCD 11, Famima 10, RPSD 7, various pro-Ratsiraka groups 10, others 8
#
Supreme Court (Cour Supreme); High Constitutional Court (Haute Cour Constitutionnelle)
Committee of Living Forces (CFV), an alliance of National Union for Development and Democracy (UNDD), Support Group for Democracy and Development in Madagascar (CSDDM), Action and Reflection Group for the Development of Madagascar (GRAD), Congress Party for Madagascar Independence - Renewal (AKFM-Fanavaozana), and some 12 other parties, trade unions, and religious groups; Militant Party for the Development of Madagascar (PMDM/MFM), formerly the Movement for Proletarian Power, Manandafy RAKOTONIRINA; Confederation of Civil Societies for Development (CSCD), Guy Willy RAZANAMASY; Association of United Malagasys (Famima); Rally for Social Democracy (RPSD), Pierre TSIRANANA
#
National Council of Christian Churches (FFKM); Federalist Movement
two equal horizontal bands of red (top) and green with a vertical white band of the same width on hoist side
Madagascar is one of the poorest countries in the world, suffering from chronic malnutrition, underfunded health and education facilities, a roughly 3% annual population growth rate, and severe loss of forest cover, accompanied by erosion. Agriculture, including fishing and forestry, is the mainstay of the economy, accounting for 35% of GDP and contributing more than 70% of export earnings. Industry is largely confined to the processing of agricultural products and textile manufacturing; it accounts for 15% of GDP. In 1986, the government introduced a five-year development plan that stressed self-sufficiency in food (mainly rice) by 1990, increased production for export, and reduced energy imports. Subsequently, growth in output has been held back because of protracted antigovernment strikes and demonstrations for political reform. Since 1993, corruption and political instability have caused the economy and infrastructure to decay further. Since April 1994, the government commitment to economic reforms has been erratic. Enormous obstacles stand in the way of Madagascar's realizing its considerable growth potential.
cargo 5, chemical tanker 1, liquefied gas tanker 1, oil tanker 2, roll-on/roll-off cargo 2 (1995 est.)
105
1
2
3
21
31
?
?
2
45
?
?
96000
open-wire lines, coaxial cables, microwave radio relay, and tropospheric scatter links
submarine cable to Bahrain; satellite earth stations - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean) and 1 Intersputnik (Atlantic Ocean Region)
17
3
0
2565000
1
260000
Popular Armed Forces (includes Intervention Forces, Development Forces, Aeronaval Forces - includes Navy and Air Force), Gendarmerie, Presidential Security Regiment
#
3103022
1843732
132146
29000000
1
@Malawi
0
0$Lilongwe$-1397$3382$234000$
#
Malawi is the name of a kingdom which already existed in the 15th century.
Bantus came to the region in the 16th century, and Arab slavers in the 19th.
As Nyassaland, it became part of the British Central African Protectorate in
1891. The Nyassaland Protectorate, with its own governor, was formed in
1907. It became independent on 6 July 1964, and a republic in 1966. The
National Assembly has 101 elected members and an unlimited number of members
nominated by the president. The Assembly has little power, and elections are
a farce.
Malawi is divided into 3 regions and 24 districts.
#
MW
Southern Africa, east of Zambia
118480
94080
2881
Mozambique 1,569 km, Tanzania 475 km, Zambia 837 km
0
?
?
?
?
?
dispute with Tanzania over the boundary in Lake Nyasa (Lake Malawi)
tropical; rainy season (November to May); dry season (May to November)
narrow elongated plateau with rolling plains, rounded hills, some mountains
junction of the Shire River and international boundary with Mozambique 37 m
Mount Mlanje Sapitwa 3,002 m
limestone, unexploited deposits of uranium, coal, and bauxite
25
0
20
50
5
200
deforestation; land degradation; water pollution from agricultural runoff, sewage, industrial wastes; siltation of spawning grounds endangers fish populations
NA
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Law of the Sea
9452844
46
2189223
2168317
51
2371518
2472245
3
107701
143840
1.71
41.56
24.48
0
1.03
1.01
0.96
0.75
0.98
139.90
36.16
35.87
36.46
5.91
Malawian(s)
Malawian
Chewa, Nyanja, Tumbuko, Yao, Lomwe, Sena, Tonga, Ngoni, Ngonde, Asian, European
#
Protestant 55%, Roman Catholic 20%, Muslim 20%, traditional indigenous beliefs
English (official), Chichewa (official), other languages important regionally
Independence Day 6 July (1964); Republic Day 6 July (1966)
18 May 1995; most recent revision
based on English common law and customary law; judicial review of legislative acts in the Supreme Court of Appeal; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
18 years of age; universal
President Bakili MULUZI (since 21 May 1994), leader of the UDF, was elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage
?
#
Cabinet was named by the president
#
unicameral
National Assembly: elections last held 17 May 1994 (next to be held NA 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (177 total) UDF 84, AFORD 33, MCP 55, others 5; note - because of defections and a bi-election of 18 December 1995, the seats in the National Assembly were held at the end of the year as follows: UDF 87, MCP 55, AFORD 35
note: the constitution of 18 May 1995, in addition to reducing the age at which universal suffrage is conferred from 21 to 18 years, provided for a bicameral legislature; by 1999, in addition to the existing National Assembly, a Senate of 80 seats is to be elected
#
High Court; Supreme Court of Appeal
ruling party: United Democratic Front (UDF), Bakili MULUZI
opposition groups: Malawi Congress Party (MCP), Green MUNLO, secretary general (top party position); Alliance for Democracy (AFORD), Chakufwa CHIHANA; Christian Democratic Party (CDP), Eston KAKHOME, president; Malawi Democratic Party (MDP), Kampelo KALUA, president
three equal horizontal bands of black (top), red, and green with a radiant, rising, red sun centered in the black band
Landlocked Malawi ranks among the world's least developed countries. The economy is predominately agricultural, with about 90% of the population living in rural areas. Agriculture accounts for 31% of GDP and 90% of export revenues. The economy depends on substantial inflows of economic assistance from the IMF, the World Bank, and individual donor nations. The new government faces strong challenges, e.g., to spur exports, to improve educational and health facilities, and to deal with environmental problems of deforestation and erosion. Drought hurt the 1994 economy, with GDP down by 12.4%. Good weather and a strong tobacco crop resulted in an upturn in 1995. In December 1995, donors pledged $332 million in aid for 1996.
#
9.90
160
1512
31
14
55
83.30
428000
agriculture 43%, manufacturing 16%, personal services 15%, commerce 9%, construction 7%, miscellaneous services 4%, other permanently employed 6% (1986)
in December 1995, donors pledged for 1996, $332 million
?
1 Malawian kwacha (MK) = 100 tambala
16.35
1 April - 31 March
789
789 km 1.067-m gauge
27294
NA km
NA km
144
?
?
?
Chipoka, Monkey Bay, Nkhata Bay, Nkhotakota
?
?
?
?
41
1
?
1
4
20
?
?
1
14
?
?
43000
fair system of open-wire lines, microwave radio relay links, and radiotelephone communications stations
satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Indian Ocean and 1 Atlantic Ocean)
10
17
0
1011000.00
0
?
Army (includes Air Wing and Naval Detachment), Police (includes paramilitary Mobile Force Unit)
#
2106905
1076788
?
10400000
?
@Malaysia
0
0$Kuala Lumpur$315$10168$1287000$
#
European traders first visited the region in the 16th century. By 1867 the
British had established control of the area. Malaysia was created on 16
September 1963. It included Malaya (independent since 1957), Singapore,
Sabah (North Borneo), and Sarawak (NW Borneo). Singapore was separated in
1965. A council of 9 hereditary rulers of the Malay states elects one of
their number to be monarch every 5 years. Parliament consists of the Senate,
with 68 seats, and the House of Representatives, with 154 members, chosen by
general election every 5 years.
Malaysia is divided into 13 states and the capital Kuala Lumpur.
#
MAL
Southeastern Asia, peninsula and northern one-third of the island of Borneo, bordering Indonesia and the South China Sea, south of Vietnam
329750
328550
2669
Brunei 381 km, Indonesia 1,782 km, Thailand 506 km
4675
?
200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation; specified boundary in the South China Sea
200
200
12
involved in a complex dispute over the Spratly Islands with China, Philippines, Taiwan, Vietnam, and possibly Brunei; State of Sabah claimed by the Philippines; Brunei may wish to purchase the Malaysian salient that divides Brunei into two parts; two islands in dispute with Singapore; two islands in dispute with Indonesia
tropical; annual southwest (April to October) and northeast (October to February) monsoons
coastal plains rising to hills and mountains
Indian Ocean 0 m
Mount Kinabalu 4,100 m
tin, petroleum, timber, copper, iron ore, natural gas, bauxite
3
10
0
63
24
3420
air pollution from industrial and vehicular emissions; water pollution from raw sewage; deforestation
flooding
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Tropical Timber 83, Tropical Timber 94, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Law of the Sea
19962893
36
3684510
3483893
60
5996369
6017327
4
342742
438052
2.07
26.20
5.49
0
1.07
1.06
1
0.78
1.01
24
69.75
66.82
72.89
3.27
Malaysian(s)
Malaysian
Malay and other indigenous 59%, Chinese 32%, Indian 9%
#
Peninsular Malaysia: Muslim (Malays), Buddhist (Chinese), Hindu (Indians). Sabah: Muslim 38%, Christian 17%, other 45%. Sarawak: tribal religion 35%, Buddhist and Confucianist 24%, Muslim 20%, Christian 16%, other 5%
Peninsular Malaysia: Malay (official), English, Chinese dialects, Tamil. Sabah: English, Malay, numerous tribal dialects, Chinese (Mandarin and Hakka dialects predominate). Sarawak: English, Malay, Mandarin, numerous tribal languages
83.50
89.10
78.10
none
Malaysia
?
?
constitutional monarchy
Kuala Lumpur
13 states (negeri-negeri, singular - negeri) and 2 federal territories* (wilayah-wilayah persekutuan, singular - wilayah persekutuan); Johor, Kedah, Kelantan, Labuan*, Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, Pahang, Perak, Perlis, Pulau Pinang, Sabah, Sarawak, Selangor, Terengganu, Wilayah Persekutuan*
Independence: 31 August 1957 (from UK)
#
?
National Day, 31 August (1957)
31 August 1957, amended 16 September 1963
based on English common law; judicial review of legislative acts in the Supreme Court at request of supreme head of the federation; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
21 years of age; universal
Paramount Ruler TUANKU JA'AFAR ibni Al-Marhum Tuanku Abdul Rahman (since 26 April 1994) and Deputy Paramount Ruler Sultan TUNKU SALAHUDDIN Abdul Aziz Shah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Hisammuddin Alam Shah (since 26 April 1994) were elected for five-year terms by and from the hereditary rulers of nine of the states
Prime Minister Dr. MAHATHIR bin Mohamad (since 16 July 1981) was appointed by the paramount ruler; Deputy Prime Minister ANWAR bin Ibrahim (since 1 December 1993)
#
Cabinet was appointed by the paramount ruler from among the members of Parliament
#
bicameral Parliament (Parlimen)
Senate (Dewan Negara): elected members serve six-year terms; elections last held NA (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (58 total, 32 appointed by the paramount ruler and 26 elected by the state legislatures) seats by party NA
House of Representatives (Dewan Rakyat): members elected for five-year terms; elections last held NA April 1995 (next to be held NA 2000); results - National Front 63%, other 37%; seats - (192 total) National Front 162, DAP 9, PBS 8, PAS 7, Semangat'46 6
#
Supreme Court, judges appointed by the paramount ruler
Peninsular Malaysia: National Front, a confederation of 13 political parties dominated by United Malays National Organization Baru (UMNO Baru), MAHATHIR bin Mohamad; Malaysian Chinese Association (MCA), LING Liong Sik; Gerakan Rakyat Malaysia, LIM Keng Yaik; Malaysian Indian Congress (MIC), S. Samy VELLU; Spirit of '46 (Semangat '46), Tengku Tan Sri RAZALEIGH, president
Sabah: National Front, SALLEH Said Keruak, Sabah Chief Minister, Sakaran DANDAI, head of Sabah State; United Sabah National Organizaton (USNO), leader NA; Sabah United Party (Parti Bersatu Sabah, PBS), Datuk Seri Joseph PAIRIN Kitingan
Sarawak: coalition Sarawak National Front composed of the Party Pesaka Bumiputra Bersatu (PBB), Datuk Patinggi Amar Haji Abdul TAIB Mahmud; Sarawak United People's Party (SUPP), Datuk Amar James WONG Soon Kai; Sarawak National Party (SNAP), Datuk Amar James WONG; Parti Bansa Dayak Sarawak (PBDS), Datuk Leo MOGGIE; major opposition parties are Democratic Action Party (DAP), LIM Kit Siang and Pan-Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS), Fadzil NOOR
14 equal horizontal stripes of red (top) alternating with white (bottom); there is a blue rectangle in the upper hoist-side corner bearing a yellow crescent and a yellow fourteen-pointed star; the crescent and the star are traditional symbols of Islam; the design was based on the flag of the US
The Malaysian economy, a mixture of private enterprise and public management, has posted a remarkable record of 9% average annual growth in 1988-95. The official growth target for 1996 is 8.3%. This growth has resulted in a substantial reduction in poverty and a marked rise in real wages. Manufactured goods exports expanded rapidly, and foreign investors continued to commit large sums in the economy. The government is aware of the inflationary potential of this rapid development and is closely monitoring fiscal and monetary policies.
#
9.50
4000
79852
8
25
67
5.30
7627000
?
2.80
20200
19900
Peninsular Malaysia: rubber and oil palm processing and manufacturing, light manufacturing industry, electronics, tin mining and smelting, logging and processing timber. Sabah: logging, petroleum production. Sarawak: agriculture processing, petroleum production and refining, logging
good intercity service provided on Peninsular Malaysia mainly by microwave radio relay; adequate intercity microwave radio relay network between Sabah and Sarawak via Brunei; domestic satellite system with 2 earth stations
submarine cables to India, Hong Kong and Singapore; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Indian Ocean and 1 Pacific Ocean)
28
3
0
8080000
33
2000000
Malaysian Army, Royal Malaysian Navy, Royal Malaysian Air Force, Royal Malaysian Police Force, Marine Police, Sarawak Border Scouts
#
5160884
3129626
184236
2400000000
2.90
@Maldives
0
0$Male$325$7300$60000$
#
A republic occupying an archipelago of 1087 coral islands in the Indian
Ocean, southwest of Sri Lanka.
#
?
Southern Asia, group of atolls in the Indian Ocean, south-southwest of India
300
300
?
?
644
?
?
35
?
12
none
tropical; hot, humid; dry, northeast monsoon (November to March); rainy, southwest monsoon (June to August)
flat
Indian Ocean 0 m
unnamed location on Wilingili 24 m
fish
10
0
3
3
84
?
depletion of freshwater aquifers threatens water supplies
low level of islands makes them very sensitive to sea level rise
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Hazardous Wastes, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - Law of the Sea
270758
47
65559
62399
50
69071
65659
3
4336
3734
3.52
41.88
6.64
0
1.05
1.05
1.05
1.16
1.05
47
66.17
64.60
67.82
6.06
Maldivian(s)
Maldivian
Sinhalese, Dravidian, Arab, African
#
Sunni Muslim
Maldivian Divehi (dialect of Sinhala, script derived from Arabic), English spoken by most government officials
based on Islamic law with admixtures of English common law primarily in commercial matters; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
21 years of age; universal
President Maumoon Abdul GAYOOM (since 11 November 1978) was reelected for a five-year term by secret ballot of the Majlis; election last held 1 October 1993 (next to be held NA 1998); results - President Maumoon Abdul GAYOOM was reelected with 92.76% of the vote
?
#
Ministry of Atolls was appointed by the president; note - need not be members of Majilis
#
unicameral; members elected for five-year terms or appointed by the president
Citizens' Council (Majlis): elections last held 2 December 1994 (next to be held NA December 1999); results - percent of vote NA; seats - (48 total, 40 elected, 8 appointed by the president) independents 40
#
High Court
although political parties are not banned, none exist
red with a large green rectangle in the center bearing a vertical white crescent; the closed side of the crescent is on the hoist side of the flag
During the 1980s tourism became one of the most important and highest growth sectors of the economy. In 1994, tourism, Maldives largest industry, accounted for about 18% of GDP and more than 60% of the Maldives' foreign exchange receipts. Fishing is a second leading growth sector. Over 90% of government tax revenue comes from import duties and tourism-related taxes. The Maldivian Government initiated an economic reform program in 1989 initially by lifting import quotas and opening some exports to the private sector. Subsequently, it has liberalized regulations to allow more foreign investment. Agriculture and manufacturing continue to play a minor role in the economy, constrained by the limited availability of cultivable land and the shortage of domestic labor. Most staple foods must be imported. In 1994, industry which consisted mainly of garment production, boat building, and handicrafts accounted for about 15% of GDP.
#
6.60
900
244
21.50
15.30
63.20
16.50
66000
fishing industry 25%
0
88
141
fish processing, tourism, shipping, boat building, coconut processing, garments, woven mats, rope, handicrafts, coral and sand mining
6.30
0.01
30
123
coconuts, corn, sweet potatoes; fishing
?
75.30
fish, clothing
Sri Lanka, US, Germany, Singapore, UK
195.10
consumer goods, intermediate and capital goods, petroleum products
Singapore, India, Sri Lanka, Hong Kong, Japan, Thailand
137.50
ODA, $NA
?
1 rufiyaa (Rf) = 100 laari
11.77
calendar year
?
?
NA km
NA km; note - Male has 9.6 km of coral highways within the city (1988 est.)
?
?
?
?
Gan, Male
20
73284
113669
cargo 17, container 2, oil tanker 1 (1995 est.)
2
1
1
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
8523
NA
satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean)
2
1
0
28284
1
7309
National Security Service (paramilitary police force)
#
59179
33016
?
?
?
@Mali
0
0$Bamako$1257$-792$950000$
#
The area was part of the Mali Empire until the 15th century. It was
conquered by the French in 1898 and incorporated, as French Sudan, into
French West Africa. In 1959 it formed, together with Senegal, the Mali
Federation. This became independent in June 1960. Senegal separated two
months later. Head of state is the president, elected for a 6-year term. He
is also head of government. The National Assembly has 82 members, elected
every 3 years.
Mali is divided into 7 regions, each with a governor, and a capital district.
#
RMM
Western Africa, southwest of Algeria
1240000
1220000
7243
Algeria 1,376 km, Burkina Faso 1,000 km, Guinea 858 km, Cote d'Ivoire 532 km, Mauritania 2,237 km, Niger 821 km, Senegal 419 km
0
?
?
?
?
?
the disputed international boundary between Burkina Faso and Mali was submitted to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in October 1983 and the ICJ issued its final ruling in December 1986, which both sides agreed to accept; Burkina Faso and Mali are proceeding with boundary demarcation, including the tripoint with Niger
subtropical to arid; hot and dry February to June; rainy, humid, and mild June to November; cool and dry November to February
mostly flat to rolling northern plains covered by sand; savanna in south, rugged hills in northeast
Senegal River 23 m
Hombori Tondo 1,155 m
gold, phosphates, kaolin, salt, limestone, uranium, bauxite, iron ore, manganese, tin, and copper deposits are known but not exploited
2
0
25
7
66
50
deforestation; soil erosion; desertification; inadequate supplies of potable water; poaching
hot, dust-laden harmattan haze common during dry seasons; recurring droughts
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Desertification, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Nuclear Test Ban
9653261
48
2310294
2308941
49
2231244
2488276
3
149370
165136
2.95
51.38
19.49
-2.37
1.03
1
0.90
0.90
0.94
102.70
46.84
45.12
48.60
7.25
Malian(s)
Malian
Mande 50% (Bambara, Malinke, Sarakole), Peul 17%, Voltaic 12%, Songhai 6%, Tuareg and Moor 10%, other 5%
#
Muslim 90%, indigenous beliefs 9%, Christian 1%
French (official), Bambara 80%, numerous African languages
Anniversary of the Proclamation of the Republic, 22 September (1960)
adopted 12 January 1992
based on French civil law system and customary law; judicial review of legislative acts in Constitutional Court (which was formally established on 9 March 1994); has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
21 years of age; universal
President Alpha Oumar KONARE (since 8 June 1992) was elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held NA April 1992 (next to be held NA April 1997); Alpha KONARE was elected in runoff race against Montaga TALL
Prime Minister Ibrahima Boubacar KEITA (since NA March 1994) was appointed by the president
#
Council of Ministers was appointed by the prime minister
#
unicameral
National Assembly: elections last held 8 March 1992 (next to be held NA February 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (116 total) Adema 76, CNID 9, US/RAD 8, Popular Movement for the Development of the Republic of West Africa 6, RDP 4, UDD 4, RDT 3, UFDP 3, PDP 2, UMDD 1
#
Supreme Court (Cour Supreme)
Alliance for Democracy (Adema), Ibrahim Baubacar KEITA; National Congress for Democratic Initiative (CNID), Mountaga TALL; Sudanese Union/African Democratic Rally (US/RDA), Mamadou Madeira KEITA; Popular Movement for the Development of the Republic of West Africa; Rally for Democracy and Progress (RDP), Almamy SYLLA; Union for Democracy and Development (UDD), Moussa Balla COULIBALY; Rally for Democracy and Labor (RDT); Union of Democratic Forces for Progress (UFDP), Dembo DIALLO; Party for Democracy and Progress (PDP), Idrissa TRAORE; Malian Union for Democracy and Development (UMDD); Movement for the Independence, the Renaissance and Integration of Africa (MIRIA), Mohammed Lamine TRAORE
#
United Movement and Fronts of Azawad (MFUA); Patriotic Movement of the Ghanda Kaye (MPGK)
three equal vertical bands of green (hoist side), yellow, and red; uses the popular pan-African colors of Ethiopia
Mali is among the poorest countries in the world, with 65% of its land area desert or semidesert. Economic activity is largely confined to the riverine area irrigated by the Niger. About 10% of the population is nomadic and some 80% of the labor force is engaged in agriculture and fishing. Industrial activity is concentrated on processing farm commodities. The economy is beginning to turn around after contracting through 1992-93, largely because of enhanced exports and import substitute production in the wake of the 50% devaluation of 12 January 1994. Post-devaluation inflation peaked at 35% in 1994, and the government appears to be keeping on track with its IMF structural adjustment program.
#
2.40
250
2413
42.40
15.40
42.20
8
2666000
agriculture 80%, services 19%, industry and commerce 1% (1981)
?
376
697
minor local consumer goods production and food processing; construction; phosphate and gold mining
machinery and equipment, foodstuffs, construction materials, petroleum, textiles
mostly franc zone and Western Europe
2800
ODA, $NA
?
1 Communaute Financiere Africaine franc (CFAF) = 100 centimes
500.56
calendar year
641
641 km 1.000-m gauge (1995)
15610
1,661 km
13,949 km (1987 est.)
1815
?
?
?
Koulikoro
?
?
?
?
24
?
4
?
2
7
?
?
3
8
?
?
11000
network consists of microwave radio relay, open wire, and radiotelephone communications stations; expansion of microwave radio relay in progress
satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean)
2
2
0
430000
2
11000
Army, Air Force, Gendarmerie, Republican Guard, National Guard, National Police (Surete Nationale)
#
1925205
1100599
?
66000000
2.20
@Malta
0
0$Valetta$3590$1452$12000$
#
#
M
Southern Europe, islands in the Mediterranean Sea, south of Sicily (Italy)
320
320
?
?
140
24
200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
?
25
12
Malta and Tunisia are discussing the commercial exploitation of the continental shelf between their countries, particularly for oil exploration
Mediterranean with mild, rainy winters and hot, dry summers
mostly low, rocky, flat to dissected plains; many coastal cliffs
Mediterranean Sea 0 m
Dingli Cliffs 245 m
limestone, salt
38
3
0
0
59
10
very limited natural fresh water resources; increasing reliance on desalination
NA
party to - Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Desertification
375576
22
42067
39958
67
126179
125321
11
17766
24285
1.01
14.79
6.83
2.12
1.06
1.05
1.01
0.73
0.98
6.90
78.11
75.77
80.60
2.17
Maltese (singular and plural)
Maltese
Arab, Sicilian, Norman, Spanish, Italian, English
#
Roman Catholic 98%
Maltese (official), English (official)
84
86
82
Republic of Malta
Malta
?
?
parliamentary democracy
Valletta
none (administered directly from Valletta)
Independence: 21 September 1964 (from UK)
#
?
Independence Day, 21 September (1964)
1964 constitution substantially amended on 13 December 1974
based on English common law and Roman civil law; has accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with reservations
18 years of age; universal
President Ugo MIFSUD BONNICI (since 4 April 1994) was elected for a five-year term by the House of Representatives
Prime Minister Dr. Edward (Eddie) FENECH ADAMI (since 12 May 1987) was appointed by the president; Deputy Prime Minister (since 14 May 1987) and Foreign Minister (since 1990) Dr. Guido DE MARCO
#
Cabinet was appointed by the president on advice of the prime minister
#
unicameral
House of Representatives: elections last held 22 February 1992 (next to be held by February 1997); results - NP 51.8%, MLP 46.5%; seats - (usually 65 total) MLP 36, NP 29; note - additional seats are given to the party with the largest popular vote to ensure a legislative majority; current total: 69 (NP 36, MLP 33 after adjustment)
#
Constitutional Court, judges are appointed by the president on the advice of the prime minister; Court of Appeal, judges are appointed by the president on the advice of the prime minister
Nationalist Party (NP), Edward FENECH ADAMI; Malta Labor Party (MLP), Alfred SANT
#
?
#
C, CCC, CE, EBRD, ECE, EU (applicant), FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IFAD, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Inmarset, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, IOM (observer), ISO (correspondent), ITU, NACC, NAM, OSCE, PCA, PFP, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO
two equal vertical bands of white (hoist side) and red; in the upper hoist-side corner is a representation of the George Cross, edged in red
Significant resources are limestone, a favorable geographic location, and a productive labor force. Malta produces only about 20% of its food needs, has limited freshwater supplies, and has no domestic energy sources. Consequently, the economy is highly dependent on foreign trade and services. Manufacturing and tourism are the largest contributors to the economy. Manufacturing accounts for about 24% of GDP, with the electronics and textile industries major contributors and with the state-owned Malta drydocks employing about 4,300 people. In 1994, over 1 million tourists visited the island. Per capita GDP of $12,000 places Malta in the range of the less affluent EU countries.
#
5
9000
3380
?
?
?
5
139600
government (excluding job corps) 37%, services 26%, manufacturing 22%, training programs 9%, construction 4%, agriculture 2% (1990)
Western Europe, island in the Irish Sea, between Great Britain and Ireland
588
588
?
?
113
?
?
?
12
12
none
cool summers and mild winters; humid; overcast about half the time
hills in north and south bisected by central valley
Irish Sea 0 m
Snaefell 620 m
lead, iron ore
?
?
?
?
?
?
NA
NA
NA
73837
18
6606
6348
65
23917
23815
17
5239
7912
0.94
12.43
12.09
9.02
1.05
1.04
1
0.66
0.94
2.40
77.15
73.56
80.91
1.68
Manxman, Manxwoman
Manx
Manx (Norse-Celtic descent), Briton
#
Anglican, Roman Catholic, Methodist, Baptist, Presbyterian, Society of Friends
English, Manx Gaelic
?
?
?
none
Isle of Man
?
?
British crown dependency
Douglas
none (British crown dependency)
Independence: none (British crown dependency)
#
?
Tynwald Day, 5 July
1961, Isle of Man Constitution Act
English law and local statute
21 years of age; universal
Lord of Mann Queen ELIZABETH II (of the United Kingdom since 6 February 1952), represented by Lieutenant Governor His Excellency Sir Timothy DAUNT (since NA 1995) who was appointed for a five-year term by the queen
President of the Legislative Council Sir Charles KERRUISH (since NA 1990); was elected by the Tynwald
#
Council of Ministers
#
bicameral Tynwald
Legislative Council: consists of a 10-member body composed of the Lord Bishop of Sodor and Man, a nonvoting attorney general, and 8 others named by the House of Keys
House of Keys: elections last held NA November 1991 (next to be held NA 1996); results - percent of vote NA; seats - (24 total) independents 24
#
High Court of Justice, justices are appointed by the Lord Chancellor of England on the nomination of the lieutenant governor
there is no party system; members sit as independents
#
?
#
none
red with the Three Legs of Man emblem (Trinacria), in the center; the three legs are joined at the thigh and bent at the knee; in order to have the toes pointing clockwise on both sides of the flag, a two-sided emblem is used
Offshore banking, manufacturing, and tourism are key sectors of the economy. The government's policy of offering incentives to high-technology companies and financial institutions to locate on the island has paid off in expanding employment opportunities in high-income industries. As a result, agriculture and fishing, once the mainstays of the economy, have declined in their shares of GDP. Banking now contributes about 45% to GDP. Trade is mostly with the UK. The Isle of Man enjoys free access to EU markets.
#
?
?
?
?
?
?
7
31829
manufacturing 11%, construction 11%, transport and communication 6%, retail distribution 9%, professional and scientific services 17%, public administration 7%, banking and finance 8%
A group of 34 coral islands in the west central Pacific, in Micronesia.
Consists of two parallel chains, Ratak, or Sunrise, in the east, and Ralik,
or Sunset, in the west. Situated 4,200 km northwest of Aukland N.Z.
Discovered in 1529 by the Spanish navigator Alvaro Saavedra.
Administratively part of the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands from 1947;
status of free association with the U.S. from 1982.
#
?
Oceania, group of atolls and reefs in the North Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from Hawaii to Papua New Guinea
181.30
181.30
?
?
370.40
24
?
200
?
12
claims US territory of Wake Island
wet season May to November; hot and humid; islands border typhoon belt
low coral limestone and sand islands
Pacific Ocean 0 m
unnamed location on Likiep 10 m
phosphate deposits, marine products, deep seabed minerals
0
60
0
0
40
?
inadequate supplies of potable water
occasional typhoons
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution
58363
51
15043
14435
47
14084
13399
2
657
745
3.85
45.75
7.28
0
1.05
1.04
1.05
0.88
1.04
46.90
63.81
62.25
65.45
6.83
Marshallese (singular and plural)
Marshallese
Micronesian
#
Christian (mostly Protestant)
English (universally spoken and is the official language), two major Marshallese dialects from the Malayo-Polynesian family, Japanese
93
100
88
Republic of the Marshall Islands
Marshall Islands
?
?
constitutional government in free association with the US; the Compact of Free Association entered into force 21 October 1986
Majuro
none
Independence: 21 October 1986 (from the US-administered UN trusteeship)
#
?
Proclamation of the Republic of the Marshall Islands, 1 May (1979)
1 May 1979
based on adapted Trust Territory laws, acts of the legislature, municipal, common, and customary laws
18 years of age; universal
President Amata KABUA (since NA 1979) was elected for a four-year term by the Nitijela from among its own members; election last held 20 November 1995 (next to be held NA 1999); results - President Amata KABUA was reelected
?
#
Cabinet; president selects from among the members of Parliament
#
unicameral
Parliament (Nitijela): elections last held 20 November 1995 (next to be held NA November 1999); results - percent of vote NA; seats - (33 total) seats by party NA
#
Supreme Court; High Court
government: Our Islands Party, President Amata KABUA
opposition: Ralik/Ratak Democratic Party (RRDP), Ramsey REIMERS
#
?
#
AsDB, ESCAP, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, IDA, IFC, IMF, Intelsat (nonsignatory user), Interpol, Sparteca, SPC, SPF, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, WHO
blue with two stripes radiating from the lower hoist-side corner - orange (top) and white; there is a white star with four large rays and 20 small rays on the hoist side above the two stripes
Agriculture and tourism are the mainstays of the economy. Agricultural production is concentrated on small farms, and the most important commercial crops are coconuts, tomatoes, melons, and breadfruit. A few cattle ranches supply the domestic meat market. Small-scale industry is limited to handicrafts, fish processing, and copra. The tourist industry is the primary source of foreign exchange and employs about 10% of the labor force. The islands have few natural resources, and imports far exceed exports. The government is drafting economic reforms designed to increase revenue and compensate for reductions in US Government grants - in 1994, the US Government provided grants of $50 million, equal to 55% of the Marshall Islands' GDP. About 25% of the government's 1995/96 budget is devoted to debt repayment.
#
1.50
2500
146
?
?
?
4
4800
NA
16
67.20
79.60
copra, fish, tourism, craft items from shell, wood, and pearls, offshore banking (embryonic)
islands interconnected by shortwave radiotelephone (used mostly for government purposes)
satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Pacific Ocean); US Government satellite communications system on Kwajalein
1
2
1
?
1
?
no regular military forces (a coast guard may be established); Police Force
Defense note: defense is the responsibility of the US
#
?
?
?
?
?
@Martinique
France
0$Fort de France$1460$-6103$150000$
#
An island in the eastern Caribbean Sea. It forms part of the Windward
Islands and of the Lesser Antilles island chain. Situated some 7,000 km from
France and 430 km north of the coast of Venezuela.
#
[F]
Caribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, north of Trinidad and Tobago
1100
1060
?
?
350
?
?
200
?
12
none
tropical; moderated by trade winds; rainy season (June to October); vulnerable to devastating cyclones (hurricanes) every eight years on average; average temperature 17.3 degrees C; humid
mountainous with indented coastline; dormant volcano
Caribbean Sea 0 m
Montagne Pelee 1,397 m
coastal scenery and beaches, cultivable land
10
8
30
26
26
60
NA
hurricanes, flooding, and volcanic activity (an average of one major natural disaster every five years)
NA
399151
23
46851
45300
67
132161
135707
10
16542
22590
1.10
16.92
5.85
-0.10
1.04
1.03
0.97
0.73
0.96
7.10
78.81
76.07
81.68
1.81
Martiniquais (singular and plural)
Martiniquais
African and African-white-Indian mixture 90%, white 5%, East Indian, Lebanese, Chinese less than 5%
#
Roman Catholic 95%, Hindu and pagan African 5%
French, Creole patois
93
92
93
Department of Martinique
Martinique
Departement de la Martinique
Martinique
overseas department of France
Fort-de-France
none (overseas department of France)
Independence: none (overseas department of France)
#
?
National Day, Taking of the Bastille, 14 July (1789)
28 September 1958 (French Constitution)
French legal system
18 years of age; universal
President (of France) Jacques CHIRAC (since 17 May 1995); Prefect Jean-Francois CORDET (since NA) was appointed by the French Ministry of the Interior
President of the General Council Claude LISE (since 22 March 1992); President of the Regional Council Emile CAPGRAS (since 22 March 1992);
#
?
#
unicameral General Council and a unicameral Regional Assembly
General Council: elections last held NA March 1994 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (44 total) number of seats by party NA; note - the PPM won a plurality
Regional Assembly: elections last held on 22 March 1992 (next to be held by March 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (41 total) RPR-UDF 16, MIM 9, PPM 9, PCM 5, independents 2
French Senate: elections last held 24 September 1989 (next to be held September 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (2 total) UDF 1, PPM 1
French National Assembly: elections last held 21 March 1993 (next to be held NA June 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (4 total) RPR 2, UDF 1, PPM 1
#
Supreme Court
Rally for the Republic (RPR), Alex URSULET; Union for a Martinique of Progress (UMP); Martinique Progressive Party (PPM), Aime CESAIRE; Socialist Federation of Martinique (FSM), Jean CRUSOL; Martinique Communist Party (PCM), George ERICHOT; Martinique Patriots (PM); Union for French Democracy (UDF), Miguel LAVENTURE; Martinique Independence Movement (MIM), Alfred MARIE-JEANNE; Republican Party (PR), Jean BAILLY
#
Proletarian Action Group (GAP); Alhed Marie-Jeanne Socialist Revolution Group (GRS); Caribbean Revolutionary Alliance (ARC); Central Union for Martinique Workers (CSTM), Marc PULVAR; Frantz Fanon Circle; League of Workers and Peasants; Parti Martiniquais Socialiste (PMS); Association for the Protection of Martinique's Heritage (ecologist)
#
FZ, WCL, WFTU
a light blue background is divided into four quadrants by a white cross; in the center of each rectangle is a white snake; the flag of France is used for official occasions
The economy is based on sugarcane, bananas, tourism, and light industry. Agriculture accounts for about 6% of GDP and the small industrial sector for 11%. Sugar production has declined, with most of the sugarcane now used for the production of rum. Banana exports are increasing, going mostly to France. The bulk of meat, vegetable, and grain requirements must be imported, contributing to a chronic trade deficit that requires large annual transfers of aid from France. Tourism has become more important than agricultural exports as a source of foreign exchange. The majority of the work force is employed in the service sector and in administration. Banana workers launched protests late in 1992 because of falling banana prices and fears of greater competition in the European market from other producers.
#
?
9500
3792
6
11
83
3.90
121600
agriculture 10%, industry 17%, services 73% (1992)
petroleum products, crude oil, foodstuffs, construction materials, vehicles, clothing and other consumer goods
France 62%, UK, Italy, Germany, Japan, US (1991)
180
ODA, $NA
?
1 French franc (F) = 100 centimes
5.01
calendar year
?
1690
1,300 km
390 km
?
?
?
?
Fort-de-France, La Trinite
?
?
?
?
2
1
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
1
?
?
159000
NA
microwave radio relay to Guadeloupe, Dominica, and Saint Lucia; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean)
1
6
0
74000
10
65000
French forces (Army, Navy, Air Force), Gendarmerie
Defense note: defense is the responsibility of France
#
?
?
?
?
?
@Mauritania
0
0$Nouakchott$1815$-1597$387802$
#
Mauritania has been inhabited since prehistoric times. From about the 4th
century BC it formed part of the Ghana and Mali empires of western Africa.
It was the homeland of the Berbers. The influence of Islam has been dominant
since the 7th century AD. Europeans discovered Mauritania in the 15th
century, but it was not exploited until 1904, when it was made part of
French West Africa. It became independent in 1960 and a republic in 1961.
The civilian government, formed in 1980, was replaced in 1981 by a military
regime.
Mauritania is divided into 12 regions and 1 district.
#
RIM
Northern Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Senegal and Western Sahara
1030700
1030400
5074
Algeria 463 km, Mali 2,237 km, Senegal 813 km, Western Sahara 1,561 km
754
24
200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
200
?
12
boundary with Senegal in dispute
desert; constantly hot, dry, dusty
mostly barren, flat plains of the Sahara; some central hills
Sebkha de Ndrhamcha -3 m
Kediet Ijill 910 m
iron ore, gypsum, fish, copper, phosphate
1
0
38
5
56
120
overgrazing, deforestation, and soil erosion aggravated by drought are contributing to desertification; very limited natural fresh water resources away from the Senegal which is the only perennial river
hot, dry, dust/sand-laden sirocco wind blows primarily in March and April; periodic droughts
party to - Climate Change, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Desertification, Law of the Sea
note: there may be a new capital district of Nouakchott
Independence: 28 November 1960 (from France)
#
?
Independence Day, 28 November (1960)
12 July 1991
three-tier system: Islamic (Shari'a) courts, special courts, and state security courts (in the process of being eliminated)
18 years of age; universal
President Col. Maaouya Ould Sid Ahmed TAYA (since 12 December 1984) was reelected for a six-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 17 January 1992 (next to be held NA January 1998); results - President Col. Maaouya Ould Sid Ahmed TAYA was reelected
Prime Minister Cheikh El Afia Ould Mohamed KHOUNA (since NA January 1996) was appointed by the president
#
Council of Ministers
#
bicameral legislature
Senate (Majlis al-Shuyukh): elections last held 15 April 1994 (next to be held 12 April 1996); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats (56 total, with 17 up for election every two years) PRDS 16, UFD/NE 1
National Assembly (Majlis al-Watani): elections last held 6 and 13 March 1992 (next to be held NA March 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (79 total) UFD/NE 67, PMR 1, RDU 1, independents 10
#
Supreme Court (Cour Supreme)
legalized by constitution passed 12 July 1991, however, politics continue to be tribally based; emerging parties include Democratic and Social Republican Party (PRDS), led by President Col. Maaouya Ould Sid'Ahmed TAYA; Union of Democratic Forces-New Era (UFD/NE), headed by Ahmed Ould DADDAH; Assembly for Democracy and Unity (RDU), Ahmed Ould SIDI BABA; Popular Social and Democratic Union (UPSD), Mohamed Mahmoud Ould MAH; Mauritanian Party for Renewal (PMR), Hameida BOUCHRAYA; National Avant-Garde Party (PAN), Khattry Ould JIDDOU; Mauritanian Party of the Democratic Center (PCDM), Bamba Ould SIDI BADI
green with a yellow five-pointed star above a yellow, horizontal crescent; the closed side of the crescent is down; the crescent, star, and color green are traditional symbols of Islam
A majority of the population still depends on agriculture and livestock for a livelihood, even though most of the nomads and many subsistence farmers were forced into the cities by recurrent droughts in the 1970s and 1980s. Mauritania has extensive deposits of iron ore, which account for almost 50% of total exports. The decline in world demand for this ore, however, has led to cutbacks in production. The nation's coastal waters are among the richest fishing areas in the world, but overexploitation by foreigners threatens this key source of revenue. The country's first deepwater port opened near Nouakchott in 1986. In recent years, drought and economic mismanagement have resulted in a substantial buildup of foreign debt. The government has begun the second stage of an economic reform program in consultation with the World Bank, the IMF, and major donor countries. Short-term growth prospects are gloomy because of the heavy debt service burden, rapid population growth, and vulnerability to climatic conditions.
#
4
460
1075
27.10
29.50
43.40
3.50
465000
agriculture 47%, services 29%, industry and commerce 14%, government 10%
20
254
280
fish processing, mining of iron ore and gypsum
?
0.11
135
61
dates, millet, sorghum, root crops; cattle, sheep; fish products
?
390
iron ore, fish and fish products
Japan 27%, Italy, Belgium, Luxembourg
355
foodstuffs, consumer goods, petroleum products, capital goods
Algeria 15%, China 6%, US 3%, France, Germany, Spain, Italy
Army, Navy, Air Force, National Gendarmerie, National Guard, National Police, Presidential Guard
#
500754
244546
?
33000000
2.50
@Mauritius
0
#
Mauritius was probably uninhabited when discovered by the Portuguese in the
16th century. The Dutch formed the first settlement in 1638. France took
over in 1721, bringing African slaves to the sugar plantations. Britain
ruled from 1810, bringing in Indian workers. French influence remained
strong. It became an independent member of the Commonwealth on 12 March
1968. Executive power lies with the governor-general. Legislative power is
with the single-chamber parliament of 62 elected and 8 nom inated members.
The governor-general nominates the premier, who proposes the other members
of the cabinet.
Mauritius has 9 administrative divisions.
#
MS
Southern Africa, island in the Indian Ocean, east of Madagascar
1860
1850
?
?
177
?
200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
200
?
12
claims the island of Diego Garcia in UK-administered British Indian Ocean Territory; claims French-administered Tromelin Island
tropical, modified by southeast trade winds; warm, dry winter (May to November); hot, wet, humid summer (November to May)
small coastal plain rising to discontinuous mountains encircling central plateau
Indian Ocean 0 m
Piton de la Petite Riviere Noire 828 m
arable land, fish
54
4
4
31
7
170
water pollution
cyclones (November to April); almost completely surrounded by reefs that may pose maritime hazards
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Desertification
Hindu 52%, Christian 28.3% (Roman Catholic 26%, Protestant 2.3%), Muslim 16.6%, other 3.1%
English (official), Creole, French, Hindi, Urdu, Hakka, Bojpoori
82.90
87.10
78.80
Republic of Mauritius
Mauritius
?
?
parliamentary democracy
Port Louis
9 districts and 3 dependencies*; Agalega Islands*, Black River, Cargados Carajos*, Flacq, Grand Port, Moka, Pamplemousses, Plaines Wilhems, Port Louis, Riviere du Rempart, Rodrigues*, Savanne
Independence: 12 March 1968 (from UK)
#
?
Independence Day, 12 March (1968)
12 March 1968; amended 12 March 1992
based on French civil law system with elements of English common law in certain areas
18 years of age; universal
President Cassam UTEEM (since 1 July 1992) and Vice President Rabindranath GHURBURRON (since 1 July 1992) were elected for five-year terms by the National Assembly
Prime Minister Navin RAMGOOLAM (since 27 December 1995) and Deputy Prime Minister Paul BERENGER (since 27 December 1995) were appointed by the president and are responsible to the National Assembly
#
Council of Ministers was appointed by the president on recommendation of the prime minister
#
unicameral
Legislative Assembly: elections last held on 20 December 1995 (next to be held by December 2000); results - MMM/MLP 65%, MSM/RMM 20%, other 15%; seats - (66 total; 62 elected, 4 appointed) MLP 35, MMM 25, allies of MLP and MMM on Rodrigues Island 2; appointed were Rodrigues Movement 2, Gaetan Duval Party 1, Hizballah 1
#
Supreme Court
government coalition: MLP/MMM alliance - Mauritian Labor Party (MLP), Navin RAMGOOLAM; Mauritian Militant Movement (MMM), Paul BERENGER
opposition: Organization of the People of Rodrigues (OPR), Louis Serge CLAIR; Rodrigues Movement, Nicolas VONMALLY; Gaetan Duval Party, Gaetan DUVAL; Hizbullah, Imam Mustapha BEEHARRY; Militant Socialist Movement (MSM); Mauritian Militant Resurgence (MMR)
four equal horizontal bands of red (top), blue, yellow, and green
Since independence in 1968, Mauritius has developed from a low income, agriculturally based economy to middle income diversified economy with growing industrial and tourist sectors. For most of the period, annual growth has been of the order of 5% to 6%. This remarkable achievement has been reflected in increased life expectancy, lowered infant mortality, and a much improved infrastructure. Sugarcane is grown on about 90% of the cultivated land area and accounts for 40% of export earnings. The government's development strategy centers on industrialization (with a view to modernization and to exports), agricultural diversification, and tourism. Economic performance in 1991-93 continued strong with solid real growth and low unemployment.
#
2.70
3280
3740
?
?
?
9.40
335000
government services 29%, agriculture and fishing 27%, manufacturing 22%, other 22%
2.40
653
567
food processing (largely sugar milling), textiles, wearing apparel, chemicals, metal products, transport equipment, nonelectrical machinery, tourism
5.80
0.34
920
777
sugarcane, tea, corn, potatoes, bananas, pulses; cattle, goats; fish
illicit producer of cannabis for the international drug trade; heroin consumption and transshipment are growing problems
1300
textiles 44%, sugar 40%, light manufactures 10%
EU and US have preferential treatment, EU 77%, US 15%
satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean); new microwave link to Reunion; HF radiotelephone links to several countries
2
0
0
395000
4
151096
National Police Force (includes the paramilitary Special Mobile Force or SMF, Special Support Units or SSU, and National Coast Guard)
#
327403
166466
?
11200000
0.40
@Mayotte
France
#
Also called Mayotte; one of the Comoro Islands situated at the northern end
of the Mozambique Channel, roughly halfway between the Malagay republic
(Madagascar) and the southern African mainland. Mayotte remained a French
territory in 1976, when the other islands of the Comoro group became
independant.
#
[F]
Southern Africa, island in the Mozambique Channel, about one-half of the way from northern Madagascar to northern Mozambique
375
375
?
?
185.20
?
?
200
?
12
claimed by Comoros
tropical; marine; hot, humid, rainy season during northeastern monsoon (November to May); dry season is cooler (May to November)
generally undulating, with deep ravines and ancient volcanic peaks
Indian Ocean 0 m
Benara 660 m
NEGL
?
?
?
?
?
?
NA
cyclones during rainy season
NA
100838
50
25099
24881
48
24790
23727
2
1152
1189
3.78
47.93
10.12
0
1.03
1.01
1.04
0.97
1.02
75.30
58.70
56.43
61.05
6.63
Mahorais (singular and plural)
Mahoran
NA
#
Muslim 99%, Christian (mostly Roman Catholic)
Mahorian (a Swahili dialect), French
?
?
?
Territorial Collectivity of Mayotte
Mayotte
?
?
territorial collectivity of France
Mamoutzou
none (territorial collectivity of France)
Independence: none (territorial collectivity of France)
#
?
National Day, Taking of the Bastille, 14 July (1789)
28 September 1958 (French Constitution)
French law
18 years of age; universal
President (of France) Jacques CHIRAC (since 17 May 1995) represented by Prefect Alain WEIL (since NA), who was appointed by the French Ministry of the Interior
President of the General Council Younoussa BAMANA (since NA 1976)
#
?
#
unicameral
General Council (Conseil General): elections last held NA March 1994 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (19 total) MPM 12, RPR 4, independents 3
French Senate: elections last held 24 September 1995 (next to be held 24 September 2001); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (1 total) MPM 1
French National Assembly: elections last held 21 and 28 March 1993 (next to be held NA 1998); results - UDF-CDS 54.3%, RPR 44.3%; seats - (1 total) UDF-CDS 1
#
Supreme Court (Tribunal Superieur d'Appel)
Mahoran Popular Movement (MPM), Younoussa BAMANA; Party for the Mahoran Democratic Rally (PRDM), Daroueche MAOULIDA; Mahoran Rally for the Republic (RPR), Mansour KAMARDINE; Union for French Democracy (UDF), Maoulida AHMED; Center of Social Democrats (CDS)
#
?
#
FZ
the flag of France is used
Economic activity is based primarily on the agricultural sector, including fishing and livestock raising. Mayotte is not self-sufficient and must import a large portion of its food requirements, mainly from France. The economy and future development of the island are heavily dependent on French financial assistance. Mayotte's remote location is an obstacle to the development of tourism.
#
?
1000
101
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
37.30
newly created lobster and shrimp industry
?
?
?
?
vanilla, ylang-ylang, coffee, copra
?
2.90
ylang-ylang (perfume essence), vanilla, copra
France 80%, Comoros 15%, Reunion
87.50
building materials, transportation equipment, rice, clothing, flour
France 63%, South Africa 11%, Thailand 9%, Singapore
?
ODA, $NA
?
1 French franc (F) = 100 centimes
5.01
calendar year
?
93
72 km
21 km
?
?
?
?
Dzaoudzi
?
?
?
?
1
?
?
?
1
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
450
NA
microwave radio relay and HF radiotelephone communications to Comoros and other international connections
1
0
0
30000
0
3500
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
@Mexico
0
0$Mexico$1940$-9915$15000000$
1$Guadalajara$2050$-10333$2846000$
1$Monterrey$2567$-10033$2521000$
1$Puebla$1905$-9817$1054000$
1$Le≤n$2117$-10170$872000$
1$Torre≤n$2555$-10342$804000$
1$Ciudad Jußrez$3173$-10648$797000$
1$Tijuana$3250$-11708$742000$
1$Aguasculientes$2200$-10218$719000$
1$Mexicali$3260$-11550$602000$
1$MΘrida$2098$-8965$557000$
1$San Luis Potosφ$2217$-10100$525000$
1$Chihuaha$2867$-10605$530000$
1$Culiacßn$2480$-10740$602000$
3$Citlaltepetl$1900$-9733$5569$
3$Popocatepetl$1903$-9863$5452$
#
Early Mexican history includes the Mayan, Toltec, and Aztec indian
civilizations. The latter founded Tenochtitlan in 1325, now Mexico City. The
Aztec empire was conquered and destroyed by the Spanish between 1519 and
1525. Independence was gained in 1821. Texas was lost to the US in 1836 and
California and New Maxico in 1848. The constitution date s from February
1915. Mexico is a federal republic of 31 states and one Federal District
(Mexico City). States have a degree of internal self-rule, each with a
governor and an elected parliament, but most power rests with the federal
government. Executive power is with the president, elected every 6 years. He
may not be re-elected. He is head of state and of government, and
commander-in-chief of the armed forces. Legislative power is in the hands of
the bicameral parliament, the National Congress. The Senate has 64 members,
elected for 6 years; the Chamber of Deputies has 300 members chosen by
direct election and 100 by proportional representation, all for 3 years.
#
MEX
Middle America, bordering the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico, between Belize and the US and bordering the North Pacific Ocean, between Guatemala and the US
1972550
1923040
4538
Belize 250 km, Guatemala 962 km, US 3,326 km
9330
24
200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
200
?
12
claims Clipperton Island (French possession)
varies from tropical to desert
high, rugged mountains, low coastal plains, high plateaus, and desert
natural fresh water resources scarce and polluted in north, inaccessible and poor quality in center and extreme southeast; raw sewage and industrial effluents polluting rivers in urban areas; deforestation; widespread erosion; desertification; serious air pollution in the national capital and urban centers along US-Mexico border
tsunamis along the Pacific coast, destructive earthquakes in the center and south, and hurricanes on the Gulf and Caribbean coasts
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Desertification, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands, Whaling
95772462
36
17732725
17125562
59
27562285
29165138
5
1911968
2274784
1.87
26.24
4.58
-2.97
1.05
1.04
0.94
0.84
0.97
25
73.67
70.07
77.45
3.03
Mexican(s)
Mexican
mestizo (Indian-Spanish) 60%, Amerindian or predominantly Amerindian 30%, Caucasian or predominantly Caucasian 9%, other 1%
#
nominally Roman Catholic 89%, Protestant 6%
Spanish, various Mayan dialects
89.60
91.80
87.40
United Mexican States
Mexico
Estados Unidos Mexicanos
Mexico
federal republic operating under a centralized government
Mexico
31 states (estados, singular - estado) and 1 federal district* (distrito federal); Aguascalientes, Baja California, Baja California Sur, Campeche, Chiapas, Chihuahua, Coahuila de Zaragoza, Colima, Distrito Federal*, Durango, Guanajuato, Guerrero, Hidalgo, Jalisco, Mexico, Michoacan de Ocampo, Morelos, Nayarit, Nuevo Leon, Oaxaca, Puebla, Queretaro de Arteaga, Quintana Roo, San Luis Potosi, Sinaloa, Sonora, Tabasco, Tamaulipas, Tlaxcala, Veracruz-Llave, Yucatan, Zacatecas
Independence: 16 September 1810 (from Spain)
#
?
Independence Day, 16 September (1810)
5 February 1917
mixture of US constitutional theory and civil law system; judicial review of legislative acts; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with reservations
18 years of age; universal and compulsory (but not enforced)
President Ernesto ZEDILLO Ponce de Leon (since 1 December 1994) was elected for a six-year term by popular vote; election last held 21 August 1994 (next to be held NA 2000); results - Ernesto ZEDILLO Ponce de Leon (PRI) 50.18%, Cuauhtemoc CARDENAS Solorzano (PRD) 17.08%, Diego FERNANDEZ DE CEVALLOS (PAN) 26.69%; other 6.049%
?
#
Cabinet was appointed by the president
#
bicameral National Congress (Congreso de la Union)
Senate (Camara de Senadores): elections last held 21 August 1994 (next to be held NA July 1997 for one-quarter of the seats); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats in full Senate - (128 total; Senate expanded from 64 seats at the last election) PRI 93, PRD 25, PAN 10
Chamber of Deputies (Camara de Diputados): elections last held 24 August 1994 (next to be held NA July 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (500 total) PRI 300, PAN 119, PRD 71, PT 10
#
Supreme Court of Justice (Corte Suprema de Justicia), judges are appointed by the president with consent of the Senate
(recognized parties) Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI), Santiago ONATE Laborde; National Action Party (PAN), Carlos CASTILLO; Popular Socialist Party (PPS), Indalecio SAYAGO Herrera; Democratic Revolutionary Party (PRD), Porfirio MUNOZ Ledo; Cardenist Front for the National Reconstruction Party (PFCRN), Rafael AGUILAR Talamantes; Democratic Forum Party (PFD), Pablo Emilio MADERO; Mexican Green Ecologist Party (PVEM), Jorge GONZALEZ Torres; Workers Party (PT), Alberto ANYA Gutierrez
#
Roman Catholic Church; Confederation of Mexican Workers (CTM); Confederation of Industrial Chambers (CONCAMIN); Confederation of National Chambers of Commerce (CONCANACO); National Peasant Confederation (CNC); Revolutionary Workers Party (PRT); Revolutionary Confederation of Workers and Peasants (CROC); Regional Confederation of Mexican Workers (CROM); Confederation of Employers of the Mexican Republic (COPARMEX); National Chamber of Transformation Industries (CANACINTRA); Coordinator for Foreign Trade Business Organizations (COECE); Federation of Unions Providing Goods and Services (FESEBES)
three equal vertical bands of green (hoist side), white, and red; the coat of arms (an eagle perched on a cactus with a snake in its beak) is centered in the white band
Mexico has a free market economy with a mixture of modern and outmoded industry and agriculture, increasingly dominated by the private sector. Mexico entered 1996 on the heels of its worst recession since the 1930s. Economic activity contracted about 7% in 1995 in the aftermath of the peso devaluation in late 1994. Although Mexico City was able to correct imbalances in its external accounts, meet international payments obligations, and dramatically improve its trade balance in 1995, the domestic economy suffered harshly as the ZEDILLO administration stuck to a strict austerity program. The tight monetary and fiscal policies helped prevent spiraling inflation and kept government spending under control but drove interest rates to record heights, making it difficult for most Mexicans to service their debts. At the same time, consumers' reduced purchasing power made buying even necessities difficult for some. Many small- and medium-sized firms were unable to survive under the twin burdens of high interest rates and depressed domestic demand for their goods. Business closures and cutbacks fueled unemployment; more than 1 million Mexicans lost their jobs. According to the government and most private sector observers, the recession bottomed out in the third quarter of 1995, but the difficult year fed growing dissatisfaction with the ruling party, led to a crisis of confidence in President ZEDILLO'S ability to lead, and spurred increased tensions within the ruling party. While the ZEDILLO administration is optimistic that 1996 will bring some recovery - the government is forecasting 3% growth and 21% inflation - Mexico will face several key vulnerabilities, including the financial health of the banking sector, shaky investor confidence that could be easily jarred by more political or economic shocks, and increasingly emboldened dissenters within the ruling party.
#
-6.90
3320
317965
8.50
28.40
63.10
52
33600000
services 31.7%, agriculture, forestry, hunting, and fishing 28%, commerce 14.6%, manufacturing 11.1%, construction 8.4%, transportation 4.7%, mining and quarrying 1.5%
10
56000
54000
food and beverages, tobacco, chemicals, iron and steel, petroleum, mining, textiles, clothing, motor vehicles, consumer durables, tourism
illicit cultivation of opium poppy and cannabis continues in spite of increasing government eradication; major supplier of heroin and marijuana to the US market; continues as the primary transshipment country for US-bound cocaine from South America; increasingly involved in the production and distribution of methamphetamine
metal-working machines, steel mill products, agricultural machinery, electrical equipment, car parts for assembly, repair parts for motor vehicles, aircraft, and aircraft parts
adequate telephone service for business and government, but the population is poorly served; domestic satellite system with 120 earth stations; extensive microwave radio relay network
satellite earth stations - 5 Intelsat (4 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Pacific Ocean); launched Solidaridad I satellite in November 1993 and Solidaridad II in October 1994, giving Mexico improved access to South America, Central America and much of the US as well as enhancing domestic communications; linked to Central American Microwave System of trunk connections
679
0
22
22500000
238
13100000
National Defense (includes Army and Air Force), Navy (includes Naval Air and Marines)
#
23945962
17451706
1057538
2240000000
0.90
@Micronesia, Federated States of
0
#
#
Oceania, island group in the North Pacific Ocean, about three-quarters of the way from Hawaii to Indonesia
702
702
?
?
6112
?
?
200
?
12
none
tropical; heavy year-round rainfall, especially in the eastern islands; located on southern edge of the typhoon belt with occasional severe damage
islands vary geologically from high mountainous islands to low, coral atolls; volcanic outcroppings on Pohnpei, Kosrae, and Truk
Pacific Ocean 0 m
Totolom 791 m
forests, marine products, deep-seabed minerals
?
?
?
?
?
?
NA
typhoons (June to December)
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Law of the Sea; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Hazardous Wastes, Ozone Layer Protection
Roman Catholic 50%, Protestant 47%, other and none 3%
English (official and common language), Trukese, Pohnpeian, Yapese, Kosrean
89
91
88
Federated States of Micronesia
none
?
?
constitutional government in free association with the US; the Compact of Free Association entered into force 3 November 1986
Kolonia (on the island of Pohnpei)
4 states; Kosrae, Pohnpei, Chuuk (Truk), Yap
Independence: 3 November 1986 (from the US-administered UN Trusteeship)
#
?
Proclamation of the Federated States of Micronesia, 10 May (1979)
10 May 1979
based on adapted Trust Territory laws, acts of the legislature, municipal, common, and customary laws
18 years of age; universal
President Bailey OLTER (since 21 May 1991) and Vice President Jacob NENA (since 21 May 1991) were elected by the Congress from among the four Senators-at-Large; election last held 11 May 1995 (next to be held NA May 1999); results - Bailey OLTER reelected to a second term as president; Jacob NENA reelected to a second term as vice president
?
#
Cabinet
#
unicameral
Congress: elections last held 7 March 1995 (next to be held NA March 1999); results - percent of vote NA; seats - (14 total) independents 14
#
Supreme Court
no formal parties
#
?
#
AsDB, ESCAP, IBRD, ICAO, IDA, IFC, IMF, Intelsat, ITU, Sparteca, SPC, SPF, UN, UNCTAD, WHO, WMO
light blue with four white five-pointed stars centered; the stars are arranged in a diamond pattern
Economic activity consists primarily of subsistence farming and fishing. The islands have few mineral deposits worth exploiting, except for high-grade phosphate. The potential for a tourist industry exists, but the remoteness of the location and a lack of adequate facilities hinder development. Financial assistance from the US is the primary source of revenue, with the US pledged to spend $1 billion in the islands in the 1990s. Geographical isolation and a poorly developed infrastructure are major impediments to long-term growth.
#
1.40
?
?
?
?
?
4
?
two-thirds are government employees
27
45
31
tourism, construction, fish processing, craft items from shell, wood, and pearls
?
0.02
40
380
black pepper, tropical fruits and vegetables, coconuts, cassava (tapioca), sweet potatoes; pigs, chickens
?
29.10
fish, garments, bananas, black pepper
Japan, US, Guam
141.10
food, manufactured goods, machinery and equipment, beverages
US, Japan, Australia
129
under terms of the Compact of Free Association, the US will provide $1.3 billion in grant aid during the period 1986-2001
?
1 United States dollar (US$) = 100 cents
?
1 October - 30 September
?
226
39 km
187 km
?
?
?
?
Colonia (Yap), Kolonia (Pohnpei), Lele, Moen
?
?
?
?
5
?
?
4
?
1
?
?
?
?
?
?
960
islands interconnected by shortwave radiotelephone (used mostly for government purposes)
Oceania, atoll in the North Pacific Ocean, about one-third of the way from Honolulu to Tokyo
5.20
5.20
?
?
15
?
?
200
?
12
none
tropical, but moderated by prevailing easterly winds
low, nearly level
Pacific Ocean 0 m
unnamed location 4 m
fish, wildlife
0
0
0
0
100
0
NA
NA
NA
0
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
none
Midway Islands
?
?
unincorporated territory of the US formerly administered by the US Navy, under Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Pacific Division; this facility has been operationally closed since 10 September 1993 and is currently undergoing transfer of accountability and responsibility to the US Department of the Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service
none; administered from Washington, DC
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
#
?
#
?
?
#
?
#
?
the flag of the US is used
The economy is based on providing support services for remaining activities located on the islands. All food and manufactured goods must be imported.
Electricity: supplied by US Military
Transportation
Railways: 0 km
#
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
32
NA km
NA km
?
?
?
?
Sand Island
?
?
?
?
2
?
?
1
?
?
?
?
?
1
?
?
?
NA
NA
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
#
?
?
?
?
?
@Moldova
0
0$Kisinow$4700$2883$640000$
#
#
MOL
Eastern Europe, northeast of Romania
33700
33700
1389
Romania 450 km, Ukraine 939 km
0
?
?
?
?
?
certain territory of Moldova and Ukraine - including Bessarabia and Northern Bukovina - are considered by Bucharest as historically a part of Romania; this territory was incorporated into the former Soviet Union following the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact in 1940
moderate winters, warm summers
rolling steppe, gradual slope south to Black Sea
Nistru River 2 m
Mount Balaneshty 430 m
lignite, phosphorites, gypsum
50
13
9
0
28
2920
heavy use of agricultural chemicals, including banned pesticides such as DDT, has contaminated soil and groundwater; extensive soil erosion from poor farming methods
NA
party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution
4463847
26
592245
573452
64
1381017
1496428
10
155908
264797
0.18
16.30
11.75
-2.77
1.05
1.03
0.92
0.59
0.91
47.60
65.14
60.77
69.73
2.17
Moldovan(s)
Moldovan
Moldavian/Romanian 64.5%, Ukrainian 13.8%, Russian 13%, Gagauz 3.5%, Jewish 1.5%, Bulgarian 2%, other 1.7% (1989 figures)
note: internal disputes with ethnic Russians and Ukrainians in the Dniester region and Gagauz Turks in the south
Moldovan (official, virtually the same as the Romanian language), Russian, Gagauz (a Turkish dialect)
96
99
94
Republic of Moldova
Moldova
Republica Moldova
none
republic
Chisinau
previously divided into 40 rayons; new districts possible under new constitution in 1994
Independence: 27 August 1991 (from Soviet Union)
#
?
Independence Day, 27 August 1991
new constitution adopted 28 July 1994; replaces old Soviet constitution of 1979
based on civil law system; Constitutional Court reviews legality of legislative acts and governmental decisions of resolution; it is unclear if Moldova accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction but accepts many UN and OSCE documents
18 years of age; universal
President Mircea SNEGUR (since 3 September 1990) was elected for a four-year term by popular vote; election last held 8 December 1991 (next to be held NA December 1996); results - Mircea SNEGUR ran unopposed and won 98.17% of vote; note - President SNEGUR was named executive president by the Supreme Soviet on 3 September 1990 and was confirmed by popular election on 8 December 1991
Prime Minister Andrei SANGHELI (since 1 July 1992; reappointed 5 April 1994 after elections for new legislature) was appointed by Parliament; First Deputy Prime Minister Ion GUTU (since NA April 1994)
#
Council of Ministers was appointed by the president on recommendation of the prime minister
#
unicameral
Parliament: elections last held 27 February 1994 (next to be held NA 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (104 total) PDAM 56, Socialist/Yedinstvo Bloc 28, Peasants and Intellectuals Bloc 11, FPCDM 9; note - seats as of June-July 1995 were as follows: PDAM 45, PSM/UN 28, Peasants and Intellectuals Bloc 11, PRCM 11, FPCDM 9
note: the comparative breakdown of seats by faction is approximate
#
Supreme Court
Christian Democratic Popular Front (FPCDM - formerly Moldovan Popular Front), Iurie ROSCA, chairman; Socialist Unity Faction (US) of the Socialist Party of Moldova (PSM), Vladimir SOLONARI, leader; Social Democratic Party of Moldova (PSDM), Anatol TARAN, chairman; Agrarian Democratic Party of Moldova (PDAM), Dumitru MOTPAN, chairman; Peasants and Intellectuals Bloc, Mihai GHIMPU, leader; Liberal Party of Modova (PLM), Mircea RUSU, chairman; Socialist Party of Moldova (PSM), Valeriu SENIC and Victor MOREV, cochairmen; Party of Rivival and Conciliation of Moldova (PRCM), Mircea SNEGUR, chairman; Moldovan Party of Democratic Forces (PFDM), Valeriu MATEI, chairman; Party for Social Progress (PPSM), Eugen SOBOR, chairman; Communist Party (PCM), Vladimir VORONIN, first chairman; Yedinstvo Intermovement, Vladimir SOLONARI, chairman, note - this party may not be in existence now
#
United Council of Labor Collectives (UCLC), Igor SMIRNOV, chairman; The Ecology Movement of Moldova (EMM), G. MALARCHUK, chairman; The Christian Democratic League of
