Verified Facts
The population of French Guiana is approximately 292,354 people, with a diverse mix of ethnic groups, languages, and religions, reflecting the territory's history as a French overseas department in South America.
Quick Facts
Population Overview
French Guiana has a relatively small population, with about 292,354 people living in an area of 83,534 km². The population growth rate is approximately 2.7% per year, which is higher than the average growth rate in France. The population is relatively young, with a median age of 26 years, and is predominantly urban, with about 85% of the population living in cities. The population density is relatively low, at 3.5 people per km², due to the vast size of the territory. French Guiana's population has been growing steadily over the years, driven by a combination of natural increase and migration. The territory's urbanization rate is high, with many people moving to cities such as Cayenne, the capital, in search of better economic opportunities.
The population of French Guiana is also characterized by a high level of migration, both within the territory and from other countries. Many people move to French Guiana from other parts of France, as well as from neighboring countries such as Brazil and Suriname. The territory's economy is driven by a range of industries, including agriculture, forestry, and mining, which attract workers from other parts of the world. The population growth rate and urbanization trends in French Guiana have significant implications for the territory's development, including the need for investment in infrastructure, education, and healthcare.
The migration patterns in French Guiana are complex and influenced by a range of factors, including economic opportunities, family ties, and cultural affinity. Many migrants come to French Guiana in search of work, particularly in the agricultural and mining sectors. Others come to join family members or to pursue educational or cultural opportunities. The migration patterns in French Guiana have contributed to the territory's cultural diversity and have helped to shape its unique identity.
Ethnic Groups
| Ethnic Group | Percentage | Region | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Creoles | 40% | Coast | Descendants of African slaves and European colonizers |
| Maroons | 20% | Interior | Descendants of African slaves who escaped from plantations |
| Amerindians | 10% | Interior | Indigenous peoples, including the Wayampi and the Teku |
| Europeans | 10% | Coast | Mainly French, but also other European nationalities |
| Asians | 5% | Coast | Mainly Chinese and Indians, who came as laborers |
| Brazilians | 5% | Border regions | Migrants from neighboring Brazil |
| Surinamese | 2% | Border regions | Migrants from neighboring Suriname |
The ethnic groups in French Guiana are diverse and reflect the territory's complex history. The Creoles, who are descendants of African slaves and European colonizers, make up the largest ethnic group, at approximately 40% of the population. The Maroons, who are descendants of African slaves who escaped from plantations, make up about 20% of the population. The Amerindians, who are the indigenous peoples of the territory, make up about 10% of the population. The ethnic groups in French Guiana have a complex and often fraught history, with many groups having been subject to colonization, slavery, and other forms of oppression. However, in recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of preserving and celebrating the cultural diversity of French Guiana.
Languages
- French is the official language of French Guiana, and is spoken by the vast majority of the population.
- Creole is a widely spoken language, particularly among the Creole population.
- Several indigenous languages are spoken by the Amerindian population, including Wayampi and Teku.
- Portuguese is spoken by some people in the border regions with Brazil.
- English is becoming increasingly popular as a second language, particularly among the younger population.
Religions
| Religion | Percentage | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Christianity | 80% | Mainly Catholic, but also Protestant and other denominations |
| Indigenous religions | 10% | Traditional beliefs and practices of the Amerindian population |
| Islam | 2% | Mainly practiced by migrants from North Africa and the Middle East |
| Hinduism | 2% | Mainly practiced by migrants from India and other parts of Asia |
| Buddhism | 1% | Mainly practiced by migrants from Asia |
| Other | 5% | Includes other religions and non-religious beliefs |
French Guiana is a secular territory, and freedom of religion is guaranteed by the constitution. The majority of the population practices Christianity, mainly Catholicism, but also Protestantism and other denominations. The indigenous population has its own traditional beliefs and practices, which are an important part of their cultural identity. Other religions, such as Islam, Hinduism, and Buddhism, are also practiced by migrant communities. The religious diversity of French Guiana is reflected in the many festivals and celebrations that take place throughout the year, which often blend traditional and modern elements.
Age Distribution
| Age Group | Percentage | Implications |
|---|---|---|
| 0-14 | 25% | High dependency ratio, with a large proportion of children and young people |
| 15-24 | 20% | High proportion of young adults, with significant potential for education and employment |
| 25-54 | 45% | Large proportion of working-age adults, with significant contributions to the economy |
| 55-64 | 5% | Smaller proportion of older adults, with some retirement and healthcare implications |
| 65+ | 5% | Small proportion of elderly people, with some healthcare and social security implications |
Urbanization & Major Cities
- Cayenne, the capital, is the largest city in French Guiana, with a population of over 50,000 people.
- Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni is the second-largest city, with a population of around 40,000 people.
- Kourou is a major urban center, with a population of around 20,000 people, and is home to the Guiana Space Centre.
- Matoury is a growing city, with a population of around 30,000 people, and is a major commercial center.
- The urban population of French Guiana is growing rapidly, with many people moving to cities in search of better economic opportunities and amenities.