Country Profile: Cyprus

Cyprus, an island nation in the Eastern Mediterranean, boasts a unique blend of Mediterranean climate and diverse geography, including central plains and mountainous regions. The population of approximately 1.33 million is predominantly Greek Cypriot, while a Turkish Cypriot community resides in the northern part of the island. Economically, Cyprus features a services-based, high-income economy with significant contributions from tourism, despite the political division that complicates trade and governance. The country operates as a presidential republic, navigating complex historical and geopolitical challenges.

Geography

Cyprus is strategically located in the Eastern Mediterranean, south of Turkey, and is the third largest island in the region, with a total area of 9,251 square kilometers. Its terrain varies from a central plain to mountain ranges, and it has a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and cool winters. Despite its small size, Cyprus has a coastline of 648 kilometers and rich natural resources.

Area: 9,251 sq km
Climate: Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers
Coastline: 648 km
Highest Point: Mount Olympus at 1,951 m

People and Society

The population of Cyprus is estimated at 1,332,293 in 2025, with a majority being Greek Cypriots. The nation's cultural fabric is predominantly Greek in terms of language and religion, with Greek being the official language for the Greek Cypriot community. The demographic structure reveals a median age of 39.9 years, a life expectancy of 80.2 years, and a healthy urban population comprising 67% of total residents.

Population: 1,332,293 (2025 est.)
Life Expectancy: 80.2 years (2024 est.)
Urban Population: 67% of total population (2023)
Ethnic Composition: 98.8% Greek, 1% other (2011 est.)

Economy

Cyprus has a service-driven economy with a high standard of living, heavily reliant on tourism. The real GDP is projected to reach $50.055 billion in 2024, with a real GDP per capita of $53,300. The economy has experienced significant growth, overcoming challenges from the banking sector and the impact of COVID-19. Agriculture plays a minor role, primarily producing products such as milk, potatoes, and olives.

Real GDP: $50.055 billion (2024 est.)
Real GDP per Capita: $53,300 (2024 est.)
Unemployment Rate: 5.7% (2024 est.)
Tourism: Significant economic contributor

Government

The Republic of Cyprus operates as a presidential republic, with Nicosia serving as the capital and the only divided capital in Europe. The government structure includes a mixed legal system, and universal suffrage is granted to citizens aged 18 and over. As of 2023, the country is led by President Nikos Christodoulidis. The political landscape is complex due to the unresolved conflict between the Greek and Turkish Cypriots.

Government Type: Presidential Republic
Capital: Nicosia
Current President: Nikos Christodoulidis (since 2023)
Administrative Divisions: 6 districts

Military and Security

The military of Cyprus, known as the Cypriot National Guard, plays a crucial role in maintaining the island's territorial integrity. It consists of an army, navy, and air force, with approximately 12,000 active personnel. Compulsory military service is required for men, while women can volunteer. The military budget is around 1.7% of GDP, reflecting the ongoing security concerns resulting from the division of the island.

Military Expenditures: 1.7% of GDP (2024 est.)
Active Personnel: Approximately 12,000 (2025)
Service Requirement: 14 months for men, voluntary for women

Energy

Cyprus has achieved 100% electrification for its population and has a diverse energy portfolio, with significant reliance on fossil fuels and increasing contributions from renewable sources such as solar energy. The country's total installed electricity generating capacity stands at 2.288 million kW, with consumption expected to reach 5.197 billion kWh in 2023.

Installed Capacity: 2.288 million kW (2023 est.)
Electricity Consumption: 5.197 billion kWh (2023 est.)
Renewable Energy Sources: Solar (16% of capacity)

Environment

Cyprus faces several environmental challenges, including water scarcity, coastal degradation, and pollution. The country is a signatory to various international environmental agreements and is actively involved in addressing these issues. Urbanization has contributed to habitat loss, while efforts are being made to manage resources sustainably.

Water Resources: Scarce, with significant challenges
Urban Population: 67% of total population (2023)
Recycling Rate: 17.6% of municipal solid waste (2022 est.)

Transportation

Cyprus has a well-developed transportation infrastructure that includes 14 airports and a robust merchant marine of over 1,000 vessels. The country is connected through numerous road networks, facilitating both domestic and international travel. Limassol and Larnaca serve as key ports, enhancing trade potential in the region.

Airports: 14 (2025)
Merchant Marine: 1,005 vessels (2023)
Ports: 6 total

Communications

Cyprus has a high level of connectivity, with about 91% of the population using the internet. The telecommunications sector features both fixed-line and mobile subscriptions, with significant growth in mobile cellular usage. The communication landscape is vibrant, with a mix of public and private broadcasting.

Internet Users: 91% of the population (2023 est.)
Mobile Subscriptions: 1.51 million (2024 est.)
Fixed-Line Subscriptions: 245,000 (2024 est.)

Key Metrics

Metric	Value	Note
Population	1,332,293	(2025 est.)
Area	9,251 sq km
GDP (Purchasing Power Parity)	$50.055 billion	(2024 est.)
Unemployment Rate	5.7%	(2024 est.)
Electricity Access	100%	(2022 est.)
Life Expectancy	80.2 years	(2024 est.)
Urban Population	67%	(2023)
Total Renewable Water Resources	780 million cubic m	(2022 est.)
Military Expenditures	1.7% of GDP	(2024 est.)
Birth Rate	9.95 births/1,000	(2025 est.)