Nations of the World 2013

This reference contains profiles of 229 nations and self-governing territories around the world, in alphabetical order. Profiles contain country overviews, with maps; key facts such as the official name, ruling parties, language, population, basic area, unemployment, and 2011 inflation figures; key indicators, including gross national product, foreign debt, exchange rate, and imports/exports; and risk assessments of politics, economy, and general stability of the region. The second section of each profile includes detailed information on history, political structure and parties, population, labor market, media, trade, industry, agriculture and energy, time zones, banking practices, entry requirements, dress codes, climate, health issues, working hours, and travel options. Countries in political crises are noted, with advice for travelers. The third part of each profile is a business directory with contact information for businesses and travel information. A regional world overview follows, with entries on each of the five regions of the world and information on key indicators and currencies, as well as maps (updated for this edition). Annotation c2013 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)