Society in Barbados
An overview of key social indicators. Select a category for detailed trends, charts, and insights.
Explore Social Domains
Demographics
Public Health
Education & Human Capital
Infrastructure & Connectivity
Current Social Overview of Barbados
A summary based on key social and demographic indicators.
- Barbados has an estimated population of 282K2023, with a modest annual growth rate of 0.0%2023, suggesting a mature demographic transition with stable, but limitated, population increase. A below-replacement fertility rate of 1.7 births per woman2023suggests gradual population aging and potential future workforce shortages. Net emigration is relatively minor, impacting the population by approximately 70 individuals annually (or -0.2 per 1,000 inhabitants)2024.
- Regarding public health, the country maintains a reasonable health standard with a life expectancy of 76.2 years2023, though there is scope for further improvements to achieve higher global benchmarks. Concurrently, maternal and child health indicators show solid progress, with child mortality (under 5 years) at 10.0 per 1,000 live births2023and maternal mortality at 35 per 100,000 live births2023, indicating improving but still developing services. These outcomes are supported by a moderate commitment to health system development, with 6.3% of GDP directed to healthcare expenditure2022.
- The country boasts exceptional educational attainment with a near-universal adult literacy rate of 100%1980, establishing a robust foundation for a knowledge-based economy. Complementing this, the educational pipeline demonstrates high efficiency with 97% primary enrollment2018and 106% secondary participation2023, ensuring comprehensive skill development and a prepared workforce. This educational framework is supported by moderate public support, with 4.0% of GDP allocated to public educational expenditure2023, reflecting a balanced approach to funding.
- In terms of infrastructure and connectivity, the primarily rural population distribution (69% rural population2023) presents distinct challenges for universal infrastructure provision, service access, and economic modernization. Furthermore, infrastructure development shows strong progress with 100% electricity access2023and 80% internet penetration2023, supporting ongoing modernization efforts and enhancing quality of life.
Key Development Insights
Population Dynamics
The combination of low fertility and net emigration poses significant long-term risks to workforce sustainability and economic vitality.
Public Health System
Public health outcomes are a core indicator of national development and quality of life. Access to healthcare is essential for sustainable growth.
Human Capital Formation
A highly educated populace positions the nation for success in the global knowledge economy. Keeping talent is a vital strength.
Infrastructure & Connectivity
Infrastructure shapes economic efficiency, urbanization patterns, and digital integration, being critical for modern economies.
More About This Country
Neighbors & Regional Peers
Note: The information on this page has been compiled from authoritative sources. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, please note that some figures may not be current or entirely precise.