Guadeloupe is an archipelago located in the Leeward Islands, in the Lesser Antilles, with a land area of 1,628 square kilometres (629 sq. mi) and a population of 400,000. It is the first overseas region of France, consisting of a single overseas department. As with the other overseas departments, Guadeloupe is also one of the 27 regions of France (being an overseas region) and an integral part of the Republic.

Control of the island was historically in contention, passing between French, British and Swedish hands. As per the Treaty of Paris 1814 it was transferred from Swedish to French rule and has remained as such to the present day. Although its economy is supported with tourism and agriculture, it leans heavily on France for subsidies and imports.

The country's location makes it susceptible to extreme weather and natural disasters, particularly hurricanes.