Region: Western Africa

Capital: Dakar

Population: 10 852 147 (July 2004 est.)

Surface area: 196 722 square km

Currency: CFA franc

GDP per capita: $1 600 (2003 est.)

Historic background:
Independent from France in 1960, Senegal joined with The Gambia to form the nominal confederation of Senegambia in 1982. However, the envisaged integration of the two countries was never carried out, and the union was dissolved in 1989. Despite peace talks, a southern separatist group sporadically has clashed with government forces since 1982. Senegal has a long history of participating in international peacekeeping.

Economy – overview:
In January 1994, Senegal undertook a bold and ambitious economic reform. The reform began with a 50% devaluation of Senegal's currency, which was linked at a fixed rate to the French franc. Government price controls and subsidies have been steadily dismantled. The results have been real growth in GDP averaging 5% annually during 1995-2003. Private activity now accounts for 82% of GDP.

On the negative side, Senegal faces deep-seated urban problems of chronic unemployment, trade union militancy, juvenile delinquency, and drug addiction.

United Nations Membership date: 28 September 1960

New York Mission:
Permanent Mission of the Republic of Senegal to the United Nations
238 East 68th Street
New York, N.Y. 10021 USA
Telephone: 212-517-9030 / 9031 / 9032
Fax: 212-517-3032