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Day: 13 March 2025

Monegasques are living longer than any other nationality in the world

by: Elsa Carpenter
13/03/2025
Monegasque population

IMSEE’s latest portrait of the Monegasque population has revealed that both men and women are living longer than any other nationality in the world. The report, which delves into the demographics of Monaco nationals, also notes a steadily growing number of people holding citizenship, a status achieved by birth, family ties or the act of naturalisation.

According to the Institut Monégasque de la Statistique et des Études Économiques (IMSEE) demographic report, published on 13th March, there were 9,883 people with confirmed Monegasque nationality or citizenship living in the Principality in 2024, an increase of just under 1% compared to the previous year.

There are slightly more female Monegasques than males, with the average age of a Monegasque being 45.1 years. The largest age group was the over-65s, who accounted for 28% of the population, followed by the 50-to-64 group and those aged 16 and under, which tied for second, each representing 19%.

Some 160 people obtained Monegasque nationality in 2024: 98 through the line of descent, 51 by marriage and 11 via a Sovereign Ordinance of Naturalisation issued by and granted at the discretion of Prince Albert II of Monaco.

Births and deaths

Contrary to population trends observed across much of Europe, the birthrate exceeded the number of deaths recorded among the Monegasque community in 2024, with 98 babies born with jus sanguinis citizenship: 46 boys and 52 girls.

See more: Monaco’s most popular baby names of 2024 revealed

Meanwhile, the Mairie de Monaco recorded 81 deaths.

Monegasque longevity

According to the most recently available data on life expectancy by the United Nations Population Division, Monegasques appear to be the longest-living nationality anywhere in the world, with an average life expectancy of 87 years.

Though the Principality is not listed in the United Nations Population Division’s rankings, the figures published by IMSEE put Monaco well ahead of the leading country in terms of life expectancy.

Indeed, Hong Kong tops the UN’s table with an average life expectancy of 85.6 years, followed by Japan with 84.9 years and South Korea with 84.4 years. Monaco’s closest neighbours, Italy and France, rank seventh and 13th respectively.

Female Monegasques live considerably longer than their male counterparts, as is the case in almost every nation in the world. The average for women, according to the 2024 data, was an impressive 90.2 years – far higher than the next closest nation, again Hong Kong, where the average is 88.3 years – while the average for Monegasque men was 84 years.

Marriage rates lowest in four decades

The number of marriages involving at least one Monegasque spouse was at its lowest level since 1983 last year, with just 55 nuptials. This is noticeably down on the figures from 2023 and 2022, when 70 and 102 such marriages took place.

The average age of first-time grooms was just over 32 years, while first-time brides were slightly younger at 30.3 years.

The statistics regarding divorces in 2024 are yet to be confirmed.

 

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Photo source: RDNE Stock, Pexels

EU to retaliate against US tariffs with sweeping countermeasures

by: Stephanie Horsman
13/03/2025
EU US tariffs

The European Union has vowed to take decisive action in response to US President Donald Trump’s latest tariffs by imposing a series of retaliatory measures aimed at shielding European industries, workers and consumers from escalating trade tensions.

The new set of tariffs on steel and aluminium, implemented on 12th March by the Trump administration, came as a surprise to no one. The US President had been threatening to impose such levies since the beginning of his tenure and has a history of doing likewise dating back to his first term in office.

Back in June 2018, the US implemented Section 232 tariffs on European steel and aluminium exports, affecting an estimated €6.4 billion worth of EU goods, equivalent to approximately €8 billion in today’s trade values. Further restrictions followed in January 2020, targeting an additional €40 million worth of EU steel and aluminium derivative products. In response, the EU imposed retaliatory tariffs, known as rebalancing measures, to counteract the impact on European industries. However, all measures were eventually withdrawn after the US “agreed to suspend its 232 tariffs on EU exporters within a certain quota,” according to the European Commission.

NEW US TARIFFS

President Trump’s latest round of tariffs is three-pronged. First, he has, as of 12th March, reinstated the original 2018 Section 232 tariffs on various semi-finished and finished steel and aluminium products. Second, tariffs on aluminium have been raised from 10% to 25%. The third and most expansive change extends tariffs to additional products, including steel and aluminium household items that contain the metals.

Further compounding the issue, the US Secretary of Commerce is expected to establish a mechanism by 12th May that would enable the continuous expansion of the list of products, potentially imposing duties of up to 25% on other European goods.

According to the European Commission, these new measures impact €26 billion worth of EU exports, representing approximately 5% of the bloc’s total goods exports to the US.

“Based on current import flows, this will result in US importers having to pay up to €6 billion in additional import tariffs,” reads a statement from the EC press office.

Meanwhile, Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the EC, has called the 25% US levies on global imports of the metals “unjustified trade restrictions.”

“We deeply regret this measure,” she shared via an official statement. “Tariffs are taxes, they are bad for business and worse for consumers. They are disrupting supply chains. They bring uncertainty for the economy.”

WHAT NOW?

In response to the new tariffs, the EC is set to reinstate the previously suspended tariffs from the EU’s 2018 and 2020 rebalancing measures as of 1st April. This will mean higher duties on a wide range of American exports, including boats, bourbon and motorcycles. In addition, the Commission is preparing to introduce new retaliatory tariffs to address the broader scope of the US restrictions. This additional package of countermeasures will target €18 billion worth of American goods, ensuring that the economic impact of the EU’s response matches that of the US.

To implement these additional measures effectively, the EU has launched a two-week consultation process with European industry stakeholders, effective 12th March.

The proposed list of targeted products, which has been published on the EC Directorate-General for Trade and Economic Security website, includes a combination of industrial and agricultural goods. Industrial items under consideration include steel, aluminium, textiles, leather goods, home appliances and various household tools. The agricultural sector could see tariffs imposed on poultry, beef, seafood, nuts, dairy, sugar and vegetables.

Following the consultation period, the EC will assess feedback and finalise a draft act. The EC says the adoption process will conclude by mid-April after being reviewed by Member States, opening the door for the additional countermeasures to come into effect and marking a new phase in transatlantic trade, with potential long-term implications for global markets and international relations.

Read related:

President Trump moves to withdraw US from Paris Agreement on first day back in office

 

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.  

 

Photo credit: Samuel Wölfl, Pexels

Charles Leclerc second favourite for Australian GP victory as F1 season kicks off

by: Cassandra Tanti
13/03/2025

As the 2025 Formula 1 season roars into action this weekend at Melbourne’s Albert Park, all eyes are on the frontrunners poised to dominate the Australian Grand Prix. Monaco’s own Charles Leclerc, driving for Ferrari, stands as the second favourite to clinch the opening race, igniting excitement among fans and bettors alike.​

According to F1’s Official Betting Data Supplier ALT Sports Data, McLaren’s Lando Norris leads the pack with odds of 3.35, reflecting his strong finish in the previous season. Leclerc follows closely with odds of 4.31, showcasing confidence in his potential performance. Reigning World Champion Max Verstappen of Red Bull holds odds of 4.41, placing him third among the top contenders. ​

Charles Leclerc’s consistent performance last season, including a second-place finish at the 2024 Australian Grand Prix, bolsters his position as a strong contender. His determination to secure a victory on the familiar Melbourne circuit adds to the anticipation surrounding his performance.​

Speaking to journalists outside Ferrari’s hospitality area, Charles Leclerc shared his excitement for the season ahead. “I think that myself and the team are well prepared and we are ready. Now the time has come to put everything together, and this weekend we will get a first picture of the hierarchy among the teams,” said the Monegasque driver.

As Ferrari prepares for the first race of the year, Leclerc spoke about the team’s approach heading into the weekend. “As always, but even more so as this is the first race, we will focus completely on ourselves. We don’t know too much about our rivals, so all we must think about is preparing for the various stages of the weekend to the best of our ability,” he said.

The circuit

Albert Park has been a staple of the Formula 1 calendar since 1996, offering a thrilling mix of high-speed straights and technical sections reminiscent of a street circuit. With four DRS zones, overtaking opportunities are plentiful, particularly at Turn 3, where drivers brake hard after a long straight. The opening lap promises excitement at Turn 1, a tight chicane where precision is crucial, while Turns 9 and 10 test a driver’s skill at high speeds. Recent years have seen dramatic racing at this circuit, with strategic battles unfolding right up to the chequered flag. 

Fans in Europe will need an early start to catch the action from Melbourne, with the race set to begin at 05:00 CET on Sunday. Free practice sessions take place on Friday at 02:30 and 06:00 CET, followed by final practice and qualifying on Saturday at the same times. The 58-lap Grand Prix, covering a total distance of 306.124 kilometres, will provide the first true test of the season’s pecking order.

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.  

Photo of Charles Leclerc in Melbourne, source: Scuderia Ferrari Media Centre

TVMonaco partners with International University of Monaco to shape future media professionals

by: Cassandra Tanti
13/03/2025

TVMonaco has partnered with the International University of Monaco to drive innovation in media and equip students with the skills needed for careers in the audiovisual industry.

The collaboration will see students from IUM working closely with TVMonaco, bringing fresh perspectives to discussions on digital media trends while gaining hands-on industry experience.

“This partnership bridges the academic world of Monaco and the media industry,” said Nathalie Biancolli, General Director of TVMonaco. “By connecting IUM’s international students with media professionals, we can innovate in content creation and enhance the reach of the Principality. It’s also a fantastic opportunity to train the next generation of audiovisual professionals right here in Monaco.”

The agreement is designed as a long-term initiative to nurture young talent and strengthen Monaco’s presence in the global media landscape.

“We are committed to developing the media professionals of tomorrow while contributing to the Principality’s international influence,” said Dr. Jean-Philippe Muller, General Director and Dean of IUM.

Students involved in the programme will have the chance to engage with industry experts, participate in projects, and gain practical insights into the evolving world of digital media.

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.  

Photo source: TV Monaco

Monaco’s CHPG introduces cutting-edge AI-powered SmartSpeed MRI

by: Niki Borisova
13/03/2025

The Princess Grace Hospital Centre has unveiled its new AI-powered SmartSpeed MRI module, which promises a faster examination process, improved diagnostics and enhanced patient care.

Monaco Life attended the inauguration of the new SmartSpeed MRI module at the Centre Hospitalier Princesse Grace (CHPG) on 12th March, an event that marked a significant advancement in medical imaging technology for the institution.

The event was also attended by Christophe Robino, Minister of Social Affairs and Health for Monaco, Benoîte Rousseau de Sevelinges, the director of the CHPG, and philanthropist Dmitry Rybolovlev, whose donation made the acquisition of this cutting-edge equipment possible.

“This innovation marks a significant step in the CHPG’s ongoing commitment to providing patients with the highest quality healthcare,” said Rousseau de Sevelinges during her speech.

The CHPG director also expressed her gratitude to Rybolovlev, stating, “Thanks to your generous and constant support, our hospital has been able to integrate major medical innovations, thus improving the care provided to our patients.”

Rybolovlev, who worked as a doctor before entering the business world, said, “I thank CHPG and its director for allowing me to contribute to modernising its equipment. Rapid and accurate diagnosis is crucial, and it’s wonderful that Monaco now has advanced technology to detect various diseases, including strokes. I’m happy to support the hospital and the Principality’s residents once again.”

Meanwhile, Minister Robino noted the potential of AI to revolutionise the healthcare sector, saying, “This technology opens new possibilities for predictive medicine and early disease detection.”

The SmartSpeed MRI module, powered by artificial intelligence, significantly enhances the imaging process by accelerating exam times by up to threefold while improving image quality. As mentioned by Rybolovlev, the new module is expected to be particularly effective in the diagnosis and treatment of strokes, allowing for faster response times and improved patient outcomes.

The head of the CHPG’s Breast Ultrasound Unit, Dr Mathieu Liberatore, told Monaco Life, “This technology allows us to work faster and streamline our examination processes. We can deliver optimal results and necessary diagnostics in a much shorter timeframe, reducing stress for patients.”

He further explained, “Previously, [patients] would spend 15 to 20 minutes in the MRI machine, which can be challenging, especially for those with anxiety. With the SmartSpeed module, exams will take just three to four minutes, greatly improving the patient experience.”

In addition to reducing examination times, the SmartSpeed MRI module offers broader compatibility, enhancing the CHPG’s diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities.

“Its compatibility with 97% of clinical protocols expands diagnostic and therapeutic possibilities, allowing for more comprehensive and personalised patient care,” noted Rousseau de Sevelinges.

Dr Liberatore also pointed out that the module enhances the hospital’s response to urgent cases, telling Monaco Life, “The new SmartSpeed module increases image processing and quality by 30%. This will also enhance the handling of urgent cases, allowing us to identify critical conditions more quickly and begin treatment without delay.”

This latest addition complements the CHPG’s already advanced MRI equipment, which has operated High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) technology since 2021 for the non-invasive treatment of uterine fibroids. This treatment is currently available in only two hospitals within France and Monaco.

Read related:

Prince Albert and Dmitry Rybolovlev inaugurate new A&E at the CHPG

 

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.  

Photo credits: Stéphane Dana, Direction de la Communication.

Discover the world of insects at Monaco’s Museum of Prehistoric Anthropology

by: Niki Borisova
13/03/2025

In early April, Monaco’s Museum of Prehistoric Anthropology in the Jardin Exotique neighbourhood will host a free and interactive workshop introducing children to the fascinating world of insects.

On Wednesday 2nd April, the Musée d’Anthropologie Préhistorique de Monaco will explore the world of insects against the backdrop of the museum’s latest exhibition, L’Effet Papillon – La Préhistoire des Animaux, which uncovers the evolutionary history that has shaped the animal kingdom.

The workshop, which will be held between 2.30pm and 4pm, is open to children aged eight and above. Activities include observing live insects, engaging in tactile experiences and learning about the essential roles insects have played in history as well as their contributions to environmental ecosystems.

See more: Unearthing the past: Musee d’Anthropologie Prehistorique explores the ancient Mediterranean

Founded in 1902 by Prince Albert I, the museum preserves and studies Monaco’s prehistoric heritage and regularly hosts educational workshops aimed at engaging younger audiences. This upcoming initiative, which aims to raise awareness about biodiversity and the importance of insect species in ecological preservation, is part of the museum’s educational outreach programme.

Participation in the workshop is free, but prior reservation will be required. Interested parties can secure a place by contacting the museum via email at map@gouv.mc or by phone on +377 98 98 80 06.

Read related:

Museum of Prehistoric Anthropology hosts ‘The Butterfly Effect: The Prehistory of Animals’

 

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.  

 

Photo source: Musee d’Anthropologie Prehistorique de Monaco