Country Profile: Akrotiri

Akrotiri, located on the southwest coast of Cyprus, is a British Overseas Territory consisting of a small peninsula and part of the Sovereign Base Areas established under a 1960 treaty. Covering an area of approximately 123 square kilometers, it is home to about 18,195 residents, including both Cypriots and UK service personnel. The economy is closely linked to the UK through military operations, while governance is maintained by the UK through an appointed administrator. The region is characterized by a temperate Mediterranean climate, with both agricultural and military activities shaping its landscape and society.

Geography

Akrotiri is situated in the Eastern Mediterranean, boasting both a temperate Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and cool winters. The area encompasses a total of 123 square kilometers, including a salt lake and wetlands, and features a coastline of 56.3 kilometers. British sovereignty includes several small off-post sites and a significant portion of the land is privately owned.

123 sq km: Total area of Akrotiri.
56.3 km: Length of coastline.
48 km: Total land borders with Cyprus.
60%: Percentage of land privately owned and farmed.

People and Society

As of 2020, Akrotiri has a population of approximately 18,195, which includes around 11,000 Cypriots and 7,195 personnel from the UK and their dependents. English and Greek are the primary languages spoken in the area. The demographic structure includes a mix of military and civilian communities, influenced by the presence of the British Armed Forces.

18,195: Total population in 2020.
11,000: Estimated number of Cypriots living in Akrotiri.
7,195: Service and UK-based contract personnel and their dependents.

Economy

The economy of Akrotiri is primarily linked to military operations, with financial interactions closely tied to the UK. The region utilizes the euro as its official currency, aligning its economic practices with the broader Eurozone, despite its unique status as a sovereign base area.

Government

Akrotiri operates under a unique governance model as a special form of UK overseas territory. It is administered by an appointed administrator who also serves as the Commander of British Forces Cyprus. The legal system mirrors that of the Republic of Cyprus, but with distinct court systems for civil and criminal matters.

King CHARLES III: Chief of state since September 8, 2022.
Air Vice-Marshal Peter J.M. SQUIRES: Head of government since September 1, 2022.
1960: Year the current constitutional framework was established.

Military and Security

The defense and security of Akrotiri are managed by the UK, which maintains a Royal Air Force base and serves as headquarters for British Forces Cyprus. This military presence plays a pivotal role in the region’s security structure and international relations.

Environment

Akrotiri faces environmental concerns, including hunting around its salt lake, which is a breeding ground for loggerhead and green turtles. The area also supports the only remaining colony of griffon vultures, making it essential for biodiversity conservation.

Communications

The British Forces Broadcast Service (BFBS) delivers a multi-channel satellite TV service along with radio broadcasts specifically for the Akrotiri Sovereign Base Area, ensuring connectivity for both military personnel and local residents.

Key Metrics

Metric	Value	Note
Area	123 sq km	Total area of Akrotiri
Population	Approximately 18,195	As of 2020
Coastline	56.3 km	Length of coastal shore
Land Boundaries	48 km	Borders with Cyprus