Country Profile: Cyprus
Cyprus is an island nation located in the eastern Mediterranean Sea, strategically positioned south of Turkey and often considered part of both Europe and the Middle East. The country has a population of approximately 1.3 million, predominantly Greek Cypriots, with a significant Turkish Cypriot community in the north, which is under Turkish control. Its economy is highly service-oriented, with tourism playing a vital role, while the country functions as a high-income member of the EU. Cyprus operates as a presidential republic, although political tensions remain due to its division.
Geography
Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean, encompassing an area of 9,251 sq km. It features a temperate climate with hot, dry summers and cool winters, primarily characterized by a central plain surrounded by mountains. The island's coastline stretches for 648 km, and it has 156 km of land boundaries, primarily with the British sovereign base areas.
- Highest point: Mount Olympus at 1,951 m.
- Lowest point: Mediterranean Sea at 0 m.
- Natural resources: Includes copper, gypsum, and asbestos.
- Population distribution: Concentrated in urban areas like Nicosia, Paphos, and Limassol.
People and Society
The estimated population of Cyprus stands at 1,320,525 in 2024, with a median age of 39.5 years. The Greek Cypriots make up 98.8% of the population, with the remaining 1% consisting of other ethnic groups, including Turkish Cypriots. The official languages are Greek and Turkish, and the predominant religion is Eastern Orthodox Christianity.
- Urbanization: 67% of the population lives in urban areas.
- Life expectancy: 80.2 years.
- Birth rate: 10.2 births/1,000 population.
- Unemployment rate: 5.7% (2024 est.).
Economy
Cyprus boasts a high-income economy based heavily on services, particularly tourism, which contributes significantly to its GDP. The GDP per capita is estimated at $53,300 for 2024, indicating a robust economic environment. Despite challenges such as the division of the island, the economy has shown resilience, with a growth rate of 3.4% projected for 2024.
- GDP composition: 76.9% services, 10.3% industry, 1.2% agriculture (2024 est.).
- Public debt: 97.5% of GDP (2017).
- Inflation rate: 1.8% (2024 est.).
- Poverty rate: 13.9% of the population below the national poverty line (2021).
Government
Cyprus operates as a presidential republic with its capital in Nicosia. The government is marked by political division, with the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (recognised only by Turkey) governing the northern part of the island. The president is elected for a five-year term, and the 80-member legislature is unicameral.
- Current President: Nikos Christodoulidis since February 28, 2023.
- Suffrage: Universal from age 18.
- Legal system: A mix of English common law and civil law.
- Independence: Achieved on August 16, 1960.
Military and Security
The Cypriot National Guard is the main military force responsible for safeguarding the territory. Cyprus allocates about 1.7% of its GDP for military expenditures, emphasizing preparedness amid ongoing regional tensions, particularly due to the presence of Turkish forces in northern Cyprus.
- Active personnel: Approximately 12-15,000 in the National Guard.
- Military service age: Compulsory for males aged 18-50.
- Major security partnerships: Primarily with Greece and EU missions.
Energy
Cyprus's energy sector is transitioning towards renewable sources, with fossil fuels currently supplying 79.1% of electricity generation capacity. The country achieves a high level of electrification, reported at 100% in 2022, reflecting an effective energy infrastructure.
- Installed capacity: 2.288 million kW (2023 est.).
- Electricity consumption: 5.197 billion kWh (2023 est.).
- Carbon emissions: 6.837 million metric tonnes CO2 (2023 est.).
Environment
Cyprus faces several environmental challenges, including water scarcity, pollution, and coastal degradation. The island is a party to multiple environmental agreements related to climate change and biodiversity, reflecting its commitment to international environmental standards.
- Water withdrawal: 100 million cubic meters for municipal needs (2020).
- Urban population: 67% (2023 est.), leading to environmental pressures.
- Recycling rate: 13.3% of municipal solid waste (2015 est.).
Transportation
Cyprus has a well-developed transportation infrastructure, with 14 airports and a merchant marine fleet comprising 1,005 vessels. The country maintains six significant ports, facilitating economic activities and trade.
- Civil aviation: 5B is the country code prefix for aircraft registration.
- Ports: Six operational ports as of 2024.
- Airports: Further expansion expected with 14 airports by 2025.
Communications
Cyprus enjoys a high level of connectivity, evidenced by internet penetration reaching 91% of the population in 2023. The telecommunications network comprises a blend of state and private enterprises, supporting both traditional and digital media.
- Broadband subscriptions: 357,000 total (2023).
- Mobile cellular subscriptions: 1.43 million (2023).
- Fixed line subscriptions: 270,000 (2023).
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 1,320,525 | 2024 estimate |
| Area | 9,251 sq km | Total area |
| GDP | $36.333 billion | 2024 estimate, official exchange rate |
| GDP per capita | $53,300 | 2024 estimate |
| Energy consumption per capita | 107.188 million Btu | 2023 estimate |
| Birth rate | 10.2 births/1,000 | 2024 estimate |
| Unemployment rate | 5.7% | 2024 estimate |
| Life expectancy at birth | 80.2 years | 2024 estimate |
| Military expenditures | 1.7% of GDP | 2024 estimate |
| Urban population | 67% | 2023 estimate |
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