Barbados Facts

Barbados, state of the Caribbean; 430 km², 287 000 residents (2019).It is the easternmost island among the Windward Islands in the Little Antilles. The capital is Bridgetown (110,000 residents, 2014). The name, which comes from the Portuguese’ barba ‘ beard, got the island because of the many “bearded” fig trees that were there when the first Europeans arrived in the 16th century.

Country facts

• Barbados / Barbados
• Country abbreviation: BB
• Area: 430 km²
• Population (2019): 287,000 residents
• Capital: Bridgetown
• Main language: English
• State: Monarchy
• Head of State: Elizabeth II (Queen)
• Head of Government: Mia Mottley
• Per capita GDP (2016): US $ 16 097
• GNI per capita (2016): US $ 15,210
• Currency unit: 1 Barbadian dollar = 100 cents
• Currency code: BBD
• Country number (telephony): 1
• Internet domain name: bb
• Time difference compared to Sweden: −5
• National Day: November 30 (Independence Day, 1966)

Population

• Population density (2019): 667 residents per km²
• Natural population growth (2019): 0.2%; birth number 11 ‰, death number 9 ‰
• Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (18%), 15-67 (63%), 65- (15%)
• Life expectancy (2019): men 78 years, women 80 years
• Infant mortality (2019): 10 per 1,000 live births
• Population forecast 2050: 300,000 residents
• HDI (2017): 0.800 (place 58 of 188)
• Urbanization rate (2019): 31%
• Most populous city (2014): Bridgetown (110,000 residents)

Business

• Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): agriculture (2%), industry (10%), service (88%)
• Exports (2017): US $ 485 million
• Main export products: machines, sugar, rum
• Main exporting countries: USA, Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana
• Imports (2017): US $ 1,520 million
• Main import products: consumer goods, machinery, food
• Main trading partners: USA, Trinidad and Tobago, China
• Railway network: nothing in operation

Geography

Location and Borders

Barbados is an island nation located in the Caribbean Sea, just east of the Caribbean’s main island chain. It lies approximately 13°N latitude and 59°W longitude, making it one of the easternmost islands in the Caribbean. The island is about 432 square kilometers in size and is roughly 34 kilometers (21 miles) long and 23 kilometers (14 miles) wide. To the east, Barbados is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, while its closest neighbors are Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and Grenada, to the west and south. It does not share land borders with any other country, as it is entirely surrounded by water.

Barbados has a strategic location at the edge of the Caribbean basin, which has historically made it an important hub for trade and a popular tourist destination. Due to its relatively small size, the island is easily traversed, and its numerous beaches, tropical landscape, and coastal waters make it a globally recognized destination for vacationers seeking an idyllic island environment.

Topography and Natural Features

The island’s topography is varied despite its relatively small size, featuring coastal plains, coral reefs, and a central hilly region. The highest point on the island is Mount Hillaby, which rises to 340 meters (1,115 feet) above sea level. This central mountainous region, made of limestone and coral, gradually slopes down toward the coastal areas, where the island’s beaches, which are among the most famous in the Caribbean, are located.

Barbados is primarily made up of coral limestone, which shapes much of its terrain, with its limestone-rich soils providing a foundation for the island’s agricultural and plant life. The island is also home to a number of scenic coves, bays, and cliffs, with the Caribbean coastline offering calm waters, while the Atlantic side is characterized by rougher waves and higher winds.

The island’s coastline features numerous sandy beaches, many of which are lined with palm trees and resorts. Its tropical marine environment includes a rich ecosystem of coral reefs, which are a significant draw for divers and snorkelers. The island also has several natural attractions, including the Harrison’s Cave, a crystallized limestone cavern that showcases the island’s rich geological history.

River Systems and Wetlands

Barbados is home to several small rivers, the largest of which is the Careenage River in the capital, Bridgetown. Other notable rivers include the Spring Garden River and the Bell River. These rivers primarily feed into the island’s coastal wetlands, which are important for local biodiversity. Though the island does not have significant freshwater lakes, its river systems contribute to the island’s unique landscape. The wetlands and mangroves along the coasts help maintain the island’s ecosystem and act as a natural buffer against storms and coastal erosion.

Climate

Tropical Climate and Seasonal Changes

Barbados has a tropical climate, characterized by warm temperatures year-round and a relatively stable climate. The island experiences two main seasons: the dry season, which runs from December to May, and the wet season from June to November. The dry season is the peak tourist season, as the island enjoys lower humidity and less rain, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities, beach visits, and exploring the island.

The wet season, which coincides with the Atlantic hurricane season, can bring heavy rainfall and increased humidity. However, rainfall is typically brief and localized, with the central and western parts of the island receiving more rainfall than the coastal areas. The average temperature year-round remains relatively consistent, ranging from 23°C (73°F) in the cooler months to 30°C (86°F) in the warmer months, with trade winds helping to moderate the heat, particularly along the coast.

Barbados is situated outside the hurricane belt, meaning that while it may experience the effects of tropical storms or hurricanes, it is less frequently affected than some of its Caribbean neighbors. However, storms from the Atlantic Ocean can still impact the island, bringing rain and occasionally heavy winds. Barbados’ location on the edge of the tropics means that it benefits from year-round sunshine and relatively stable weather patterns.

Hurricane and Storm Risks

While hurricanes do not strike Barbados directly as often as other Caribbean islands, the region is still subject to tropical storms during the Atlantic hurricane season. The most active period for hurricanes is between August and October. These storms can bring rainfall, strong winds, and occasional flooding, though the impact is generally less severe than in other areas of the Caribbean that are directly in the hurricane belt.

People

Population and Demographics

Barbados has a population of approximately 280,000 people, making it one of the smaller nations in the Caribbean. The majority of the population is of African descent, which reflects the country’s history of the transatlantic slave trade, followed by the establishment of sugar plantations on the island. Smaller communities of European, East Indian, and other ethnicities are also present, adding to the island’s cultural diversity.

The capital city of Bridgetown, located on the southwestern coast, is the largest urban area and economic center of the island. The population of Bridgetown is a significant portion of the country’s total, with many of the island’s services, commerce, and government operations centered in this area. Smaller towns and rural areas, particularly in the more remote, hilly regions of the island, are less densely populated.

Languages

English is the official language of Barbados and is widely spoken throughout the country in all government, educational, and business settings. However, the everyday language spoken by many Barbadians is a distinct Caribbean dialect known as Bajan, which blends English with elements of African languages and regional expressions. Bajan is typically used in informal conversation and reflects the island’s history and cultural heritage.

Additionally, there are a few people who speak other languages due to immigration, with Spanish and French being the most common among expatriates and in tourism-related contexts. However, English remains the dominant language in Barbados.

Religion

Christianity is the predominant religion in Barbados, with a majority of the population identifying as Christians. The island has a mix of denominations, including Anglican, Roman Catholic, Methodist, and Baptist, reflecting the island’s colonial heritage and cultural influences. There is also a small Jewish community, as well as a growing number of people practicing Hinduism and Islam, particularly among the South Asian and immigrant populations. Religion plays an important role in daily life, with church attendance being a regular activity for many Barbadians, especially on Sundays.

Economy

Overview

Barbados has a highly developed, open economy, largely based on tourism, services, and agriculture. The country is recognized as one of the more economically advanced nations in the Caribbean. It has a well-established tourism infrastructure, a relatively high standard of living, and a growing financial services sector.

Historically, Barbados’ economy was centered around sugar production, but the island has diversified in recent decades to reduce its reliance on sugar exports. The tourism industry has become a major economic driver, contributing significantly to GDP and providing employment for a substantial portion of the population. The government has also worked to promote financial services, technology, and other industries to ensure long-term economic growth.

Agriculture and Tourism

Agriculture was once the backbone of Barbados’ economy, particularly with its sugarcane industry, but this sector has seen a significant decline due to the globalization of the sugar market. Sugarcane is still grown, but the island has diversified into growing crops such as bananas, cotton, and vegetables. Livestock farming is also important, though much of the island’s food is imported.

Tourism is the largest single contributor to Barbados’ economy. The island’s picturesque beaches, warm climate, and rich cultural heritage make it a popular destination for international tourists, particularly from North America and Europe. Luxury resorts, all-inclusive hotels, and private villas attract visitors year-round. Eco-tourism, which includes visits to the island’s natural attractions such as Harrison’s Cave and the island’s wildlife sanctuaries, is also an important segment of the tourism market.

Financial Services and Industry

The financial sector has grown significantly in recent years, with Barbados becoming a hub for international banking and investment services. The country’s banking regulations are highly favorable, and it has a well-developed insurance and trust management sector, with many multinational corporations having regional headquarters in Barbados. Manufacturing is another important industry, with food processing, apparel, and chemicals being produced for both local use and export.

The government has placed a strong emphasis on diversification to reduce dependence on tourism and agriculture, and the services sector has grown to include information technology, education, and healthcare. Barbados also exports rum, which is known internationally, and continues to expand its production of luxury goods.

Trade and Exports

Barbados has a small, but open economy, and is a member of several regional and international organizations such as the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the World Trade Organization (WTO). The island’s primary exports include sugar, rum, molasses, and agricultural products like vegetables and fruits. Barbados also imports a variety of goods, particularly machinery, food, and chemicals.

Government

Political System

Barbados is a parliamentary democracy and a constitutional monarchy with the British monarch as the ceremonial head of state. The monarch is represented in Barbados by the Governor-General, who carries out ceremonial duties and exercises executive powers on behalf of the monarch. However, the day-to-day operations of the government are overseen by the elected Prime Minister, who is the head of government.

The Barbados Parliament is bicameral, consisting of the Senate and the House of Assembly. The House of Assembly is made up of 30 elected members, while the Senate consists of 21 appointed members, including both government and opposition representatives. Elections are held every five years, and the political environment is typically dominated by two major parties: the Barbados Labour Party (BLP) and the Democratic Labour Party (DLP).

Legal System

Barbados has a well-established legal system based on English common law, as a legacy of its colonial past. The country’s legal system operates through the courts, which include magistrates’ courts, the High Court, and the Court of Appeal. The judiciary is independent, and the island’s legal framework ensures a stable environment for investment and business.

Foreign Relations

Barbados maintains strong ties with the United Kingdom, the United States, and other Commonwealth nations, as well as with its Caribbean neighbors. As a member of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), Barbados participates actively in regional cooperation and diplomacy. The country also engages in international development projects and hosts several foreign embassies, which reflect its significance as a stable democracy in the Caribbean.

Culture

Arts and Music

Barbados has a rich cultural heritage shaped by its African, European, and Caribbean roots. The island’s music scene is vibrant, with calypso, soca, and reggae being the most popular genres. The Crop Over Festival, held every summer, celebrates the end of the sugarcane harvest and is the island’s largest cultural celebration, featuring parades, music, dancing, and costumes.

The island is also known for its arts scene, with visual artists, poets, and filmmakers gaining international recognition. Barbados has a thriving local arts community, with galleries and exhibitions showcasing traditional and contemporary art. The island also hosts cultural events like the Barbados Jazz Festival, which attracts global talent.

Cuisine

Barbadian cuisine reflects the island’s colonial and African influences, with a variety of seafood, vegetables, and tropical fruits. Key dishes include flying fish and cou-cou, saltfish, and pepperpot. The island is also known for its rum and cocktails, including the iconic rum punch. Street food, such as fish cakes and sweet potato pudding, is an important part of local food culture.

Festivals and Traditions

Barbados celebrates numerous festivals throughout the year, with Crop Over being the most significant. The island also celebrates Christmas and Easter with grand religious processions and community events. Crop Over, with its music, parades, and dancing, is a highlight of Barbadian cultural life, while other celebrations include the Holetown Festival and the Oistins Fish Festival, which honor the island’s history and its deep connection to fishing and agriculture.

History

Early History and Colonization

The history of Barbados begins with its first known inhabitants, the Arawak and Carib peoples, who arrived from South America. The island was later claimed by the British in 1627, becoming one of the earliest English colonies in the Caribbean. During the colonial period, Barbados became an important producer of sugar, using African slaves to work on sugarcane plantations.

Slavery and Independence Movement

The slave trade and the sugar industry formed the backbone of Barbados’ economy for over 200 years. Slavery was officially abolished in 1834, though it took time for the island’s economy and society to transition. The struggle for workers’ rights and political representation led to various uprisings and labor movements throughout the 20th century.

Barbados achieved independence from Britain on November 30, 1966, and became a republic in 2021, formally ending its colonial ties while maintaining strong political, economic, and cultural connections to the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth.

Modern Barbados

Today, Barbados is one of the most developed nations in the Caribbean, with a high standard of living and a strong economy based on tourism, agriculture, and services. The island has remained politically stable and continues to play a central role in Caribbean regional affairs. As a popular tourist destination with rich cultural traditions, Barbados enjoys global recognition as a vibrant island nation with a history marked by resilience and transformation.

Barbados Map