Gaza Strip

The Gaza Strip, a symbol of resilience and history, offers a unique perspective on culture and geopolitical challenges on Innovando.News: The Gaza Strip, located on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea, is a Palestinian territory that borders Israel and Egypt. With an area of ​​approximately 365 km², it is home to approximately 2,3 million people, making it one of the most densely populated areas in the world. Gaza City is the main center, along with Khan Yunis and Rafah. Its economy is fragile, characterized by a high rate of unemployment and a heavy dependence on international aid. Agriculture and crafts are the predominant sectors, limited by restrictions on access to markets. Palestinian culture dominates the scene, with Islamic traditions and typical dishes such as maqluba. However, the Gaza Strip faces significant challenges, such as water pollution problems and an overburdened health system. Despite the difficulties, the population maintains a strong cultural identity and a high level of literacy.

Summary data on Gaza Strip

• Total population: Approximately 2,3 million inhabitants.
• Population growth rate: Approximately 2,4% per annum.
• Capital: Gaza City, with approximately 590.000 inhabitants.
• Main cities: Rafah, Khan Yunis, Beit Lahia, Deir al-Balah.
• Countries it borders: Israel, Egypt; also borders the Mediterranean Sea.
• Nominal GDP: Approximately USD 3 billion.
• Pro-capite GDP: Approximately USD 1.200.
• GDP growth rate: Conditioned by blocks and conflicts.
• Inflation: High and variable.
• Unemployment rate: Between 45% and 50%.
• Trade balance: Largely negative; depends on imports.
• Major business partners: Israel, Egypt.
• Public debt: Data not specified.
• Public spending on R&D: Negligible.
• Main economic sectors: Agriculture, fishing, small manufacturing.
• Currency: Israeli New Shekel (ILS), Jordanian Dinar (JOD), US Dollar (USD).
• Interest rate: Data not available.
• Foreign exchange reserves: Limited.
• Main exports: Agricultural products, handicrafts.
• Main imports: Food, fuel, building materials.
• Human Development Index (HDI): Low, not officially classified.
• Literacy rate: Approximately 96%.
• Life expectancy: About 74 years old.
• Position in the Global Innovation Index: Not classified.
• Corruption Perception Index: Not specifically calculated, perception of high corruption.

Insights on Gaza Strip

1. Country Name

• Official name: Gaza Strip
• Short form: Gaza

2. Geography

• Geographic location: Located on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea, it borders Israel to the north and east, and Egypt to the south.
• In total area: Approximately 365 km².
• Description of the landscape: Characterized by coastal plains, sandy beaches and a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters.

3. Population

• Number of inhabitants: Approximately 2,3 million (2023).
• Population growth rate: Tall, with a young population.
• Major cities and population distribution: Gaza City is the main city, with very high population density.

4. Capital and main cities

• Capital: Gaza City.
• Other major cities: Khan Yunis, Rafah, Jabalia.

5. economy

Nominal GDP and GDP per capita

Gaza's economy is limited, with a low GDP per capita, caused by the economic blockade and restrictions.

Main economic sectors

Agriculture, local trade and crafts are essential, but limited by limited access to external markets.

GDP growth rate and inflation

GDP grows slowly, often subject to fluctuations due to instability.

Unemployment rate and trade balance

Unemployment exceeds 45%, with a severely negative trade balance.

Public debt

Not directly applicable. Gaza is largely dependent on international aid.

Main exports and imports

Exports include agricultural products, but are limited. The main imports are basic necessities and construction materials.

6. Political system and government

• Type of government: De facto controlled by Hamas, which governs independently of the Palestinian Authority.
• Political structure: Centralized executive government under Hamas, with limited infrastructure.
• Political parties: Hamas and Fatah are the main ones.
• electionsThe last elections were in 2006.

7. History and culture

Brief historical overview

The Gaza Strip has a long history, having been inhabited since ancient times. Recently, it has been at the center of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Cultural and linguistic traditions

Palestinian culture is dominant, with Arabic as the primary language and traditions tied to Islam.

Cultural heritage

Important archaeological sites and historic mosques are located in the Gaza Strip, despite the damage suffered during the conflicts.

8. Innovation and development

• Position in the Global Innovation Index: Not available.
• R&D expenditure: Very limited, due to basic survival priorities.
• Advanced technology sectors: Limited innovations, mainly related to resilience and resource management projects.

9. Education and health

• Literacy rate: High, close to 97%.
• Education systemMany students attend UNRWA-run schools, with limited access to universities.
• Sanitary system: Overburdened health services, with reduced access to advanced care.
• Life expectancy: About 74 years old.

10. International rankings

• Human Development Index: Low, due to economic and social difficulties.
• Corruption Perception Index: Not available.
• Global Economic Indices: Not applicable, given the unique situation in Gaza.

11. Environmental policies

• Sustainability: Serious problems of water pollution and waste management.
• International commitments: Limited due to the political situation.

12. Curiosities and peculiarities

• Interesting facts: Gaza is one of the most densely populated areas in the world.
• Holidays and gastronomyTraditional dishes include maqluba and musakhan, and Ramadan is celebrated as a major cultural and religious event.