Africa and Americas: Socioeconomic and Political Landscapes
North Africa
North Africa is formed by the Maghreb, and the political regime in Egypt is a republic. In some countries, there are internal conflicts caused by the most fundamentalist minority. The region has different levels of development, and the culture that prevails is Islamic. The population is of Arab origin, European, and Berber. Also, there are tribal communities like the Tuareg. In this area, French, Arabic, and Berber are spoken. The agriculture industry is poor and weak despite the wealth of natural resources. Tourism is a major activity in Tunisia, Morocco, and Egypt. The population is young and growing, with 157 million inhabitants. They are mainly concentrated in coastal areas and in the Nile Valley. Emigration from the Maghreb to Europe is common because of the elevated unemployment rate. Although there are important urban centers, the predominant way of life is still rural and traditional. Women have little presence in society but are increasingly accessing secondary and higher education. Many of the inhabitants of this area are in poverty, and only a minority has a high income.
Sub-Saharan Africa
Sub-Saharan Africa – with the exception of the Republic of South Africa, the Seychelles, and Mauritius, these areas constitute the most underdeveloped geographic area in the world. Most of the political regimes are republics, and political instability in many countries is a characteristic of the area. Frequent civil wars between different ethnic groups, border disputes, and corruption of governments are common. Their literacy rates are among the lowest in the world. Diverse populations and cultures live in this area of Africa; some are of tribal origin, and others come from other continents, especially Europe. As a consequence, different languages are spoken: several indigenous languages, English, and French. The ancient religions of the African natives coexist with Christianity and Islam. The population is around 767 million inhabitants. They focus on natural cores, although continuing population growth and lack of food impel migration to large cities. Skilled professions are a minority. Those of European origin play a role in terms of economic activities. The economy is dominated by agriculture and, in general, by low-productivity livestock. The little industry that exists is located near the mining areas, and in the vicinity of the ports, production is intended for export. In many cases, the industry is controlled by multinationals.
North America
North America – In this area is the first power of the world (USA). The U.S. economy stands above the rest of the countries. Agriculture is highly mechanized and very diversified. The U.S. occupies a prominent place in international trade. The state population is around 300 million inhabitants. Canada is a highly industrialized country, with a lower weight than the U.S. in the world. Mexico has a lower level of development than those before, with 108.3 million inhabitants, and its external debt is very high. In the United States and Canada, the population is native to several European countries, Latin America, Africa, and Asia. In Mexico, the population is mostly Spanish and indigenous. Small groups of indigenous people exist in the U.S. The most spoken languages are English and Spanish, and in Canada, English and French. In Mexico, Spanish coexists with different indigenous languages. In North America, the degree of urbanization is high. The U.S. and Canada are characterized by general prosperity, and poverty and social marginalization are also present. In Mexico, there are notable social and economic differences between the population. The U.S., Canada, and Mexico have democratic political regimes.
Central and South America
Central America and South America – In this area, three broad areas are distinguished: Central America, the Caribbean area, and South America. Political instability is a problem that affects many countries in the region. In spite of the fact that dictatorial regimes remain, democratic systems are strengthened. Spanish is the predominant language. Literacy is higher than that of Asia and Africa but lower than that of developed countries. The economy is largely dependent on the exploitation of its natural resources. Many of these countries are going through major economic crises because of foreign debt, and dependence on foreign countries remains. Agriculture is a leading economic activity. Industry is often controlled by multinational companies. The population is a little more than 458 million inhabitants, and its growth rate is high, as is its infant mortality. Society is characterized by ethnic diversity and huge economic and social inequalities that cause insecurity, violence, etc. A high rate of emigration to the U.S. and Europe is highlighted. There is intense urbanization. American cultural influence is very marked.