Guatemala

World Book Index

Introduction

Guatemala, a country rich in history and culture, was once the heart of the ancient Maya civilization, which thrived in the region during the first millennium A.D. Following nearly three centuries of Spanish colonial rule, Guatemala achieved its independence in 1821. The latter half of the 20th century was marked by significant political turmoil, characterized by a series of military and civilian governments, culminating in a protracted 36-year guerrilla conflict that concluded in 1996. Today, Guatemala stands at a crossroads, grappling with the legacies of its past while striving for a more stable and prosperous future.

Neighboring countries

Belize - El Salvador - Honduras - Mexico

Geography

Area
Total: 108,889 sq km
Land: 107,159 sq km
Water: 1,730 sq km

Guatemala is located in Central America, bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the southwest and the Caribbean Sea to the southeast. The country's diverse geography includes coastal plains, volcanic highlands, and mountainous regions, which contribute to its rich biodiversity. The climate is predominantly tropical, characterized by hot and humid conditions in the lowlands, while the highlands enjoy a cooler climate. Guatemala is endowed with significant natural resources, including petroleum, nickel, rare woods, fish, chicle, and hydropower, which play a crucial role in its economy and development.

People and Society

Population
Total: 18,255,216 (2024 estimated)

Guatemala's population is a tapestry of ethnic diversity, with the Mestizo group, which is a mix of Indigenous and Spanish ancestry, comprising 56% of the population. The Maya people represent 41.7%, showcasing the enduring legacy of the ancient civilization. Other groups include the Xinca, of Indigenous non-Maya descent, at 1.8%, and those of African descent at 0.2%. The Garifuna community, which is a blend of West and Central African, Island Carib, and Arawak ancestry, makes up 0.1%. The population growth rate stands at 1.49%, indicating a youthful demographic that presents both opportunities and challenges for the nation. Spanish is the official language, spoken by 69.9% of the population, while various Maya languages are spoken by 29.7%, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the country. In terms of religion, the population is predominantly Evangelical at 45.7%, followed closely by Roman Catholics at 42.4%, with a notable portion identifying as having no religion at 11%.

Government

Government type
Presidential republic

Capital
Name: Guatemala City

The government of Guatemala operates as a presidential republic, where the President serves as both the head of state and the head of government. Currently, President Bernardo ARÉVALO de León has been in office since January 15, 2024. The country maintains diplomatic relations with the United States, represented by Ambassador Hugo Eduardo BETETA since June 17, 2024, while the U.S. is represented by Ambassador Tobin BRADLEY since February 12, 2024.

Economy

Economic overview
Guatemala's economy is classified as a developing Central American economy, characterized by steady growth primarily driven by remittances from Guatemalans living abroad. Despite this growth, the country faces significant challenges, including high levels of poverty and income inequality. Limited government services and a lack of employment opportunities further exacerbate these issues, while frequent natural disasters hinder human development efforts and contribute to emigration trends. The economy's resilience is tested by these factors, necessitating comprehensive strategies for sustainable development.

Real GDP (purchasing power parity)
$232.673 billion (2024 estimated)
$224.475 billion (2023 estimated)
$216.815 billion (2022 estimated)

Real GDP per capita
$12,600 (2024 estimated)
$12,400 (2023 estimated)
$12,100 (2022 estimated)

Exports
$17.997 billion (2024 estimated)
$17.342 billion (2023 estimated)
$18.141 billion (2022 estimated)

Exports - partners
USA 33%, El Salvador 11%, Honduras 9%, Nicaragua 6%, Mexico 4% (2023)

Exports - commodities
Garments, bananas, coffee, palm oil, raw sugar (2023)

Imports
$35.576 billion (2024 estimated)
$33.056 billion (2023 estimated)
$33.943 billion (2022 estimated)

Imports - partners
USA 30%, China 19%, Mexico 11%, El Salvador 4%, Costa Rica 3% (2023)

Imports - commodities
Refined petroleum, video displays, cars, trucks, packaged medicine (2023)

Human Development Index

The country's Human Development Index (HDI) is 0.662, ranking it 137th out of 193 countries tested. (more information)

World Happiness Report

The World Happiness Report ranked the country 52th out of 158 countries tested with a score of 6.188. (more information)