Country Profile: Ireland

Ireland, a parliamentary republic located in Western Europe, occupies five-sixths of the island of Ireland in the North Atlantic Ocean. The country has a vibrant population of approximately 5.2 million people, characterized by a youthful demographic and rich cultural heritage. A high-income, export-oriented economy primarily driven by multinational corporations has propelled Ireland into a period of recovery and growth following the 2008 financial crisis. The government’s commitment to military neutrality and engagement in international cooperation underscores its unique position within both the European Union and global geopolitics.

Geography

Ireland is located in Western Europe and occupies the majority of the island of Ireland, situated west of Great Britain in the North Atlantic Ocean. It features a temperate maritime climate with mild winters and cool summers, characterized by rolling plains, rugged hills, and stunning coastlines. The capital city, Dublin, is located on the eastern side, which is the most densely populated area of the country.

Area: 70,273 sq km
Coastline: 1,448 km
Highest Point: Carrauntoohil at 1,041 m
Major Urban Area: Dublin, population 1.270 million (2023)
Population Distribution: Over 40% live within 100 km of Dublin.

People and Society

Ireland has a total population of approximately 5.2 million (2024 est.), with a significant portion residing in urban areas. The country is predominantly Irish, with a rich tapestry of ethnic diversity and a strong English-speaking population, alongside the official use of Irish (Gaelic). The society is largely influenced by Roman Catholic beliefs, although it is becoming increasingly secular.

Life Expectancy: 82 years (2024 est.)
Birth Rate: 10.95 births/1,000 population (2025 est.)
Urban Population: 64.5% of total population (2023)
Median Age: 40.5 years (2025 est.)
Population Growth Rate: 0.8% (2025 est.)

Economy

Ireland's economy is characterized as a high-income, export-oriented system with a focus on multinational businesses. Key sectors include pharmaceuticals, technology, and services, contributing to a robust GDP. The economy faced challenges during the 2008 financial crisis but rebounded by attracting significant foreign investment.

GDP (PPP): $620.544 billion (2024 est.)
GDP per Capita: $115,300 (2024 est.)
Unemployment Rate: 4.4% (2024 est.)
Inflation Rate: 2.1% (2024 est.)
Exports: $761.876 billion (2023 est.)

Government

Ireland is a parliamentary republic, with Dublin as its capital. The government is characterized by a bicameral legislature, comprising the House of Representatives and the Senate. The constitutional framework allows for universal suffrage at 18 years of age, ensuring an active electoral process.

President: Catherine Connolly (since 2025)
Taoiseach (Prime Minister): Michael Martin (since 2025)
Administrative Divisions: 28 counties and 3 cities
Last Election: January 2025 (House of Representatives)
National Holiday: Saint Patrick's Day, celebrated on 17 March

Military and Security

Ireland maintains a policy of military neutrality and has a small defense force, primarily focused on peacekeeping and internal security. The Irish Defense Forces are involved in various international missions while ensuring the nation's sovereignty and stability.

Active-Duty Personnel: Approximately 7,500 (2025)
Military Expenditures: 0.2% of GDP (2024 est.)
Peacekeeping Missions: Contributes troops to UN and EU missions
Defense Forces: Comprises Army, Air Corps, and Naval Service

Energy

Ireland has made significant strides in energy generation, focusing on renewable sources such as wind power. The country has achieved 100% electrification, ensuring a stable energy supply for its population.

Installed Electricity Capacity: 12.321 million kW (2023 est.)
Electricity Consumption: 32.282 billion kWh (2023 est.)
Wind Power Contribution: 37% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Natural Gas Consumption: 4.919 billion cubic meters (2023 est.)

Environment

Ireland faces environmental challenges, including water pollution and deforestation, primarily due to agricultural activities. The government is an active participant in various international environmental agreements, underscoring its commitment to sustainable development.

Agricultural Land Use: 60.8% (2023 est.)
Carbon Dioxide Emissions: 35.486 million metric tonnes (2023 est.)
Waste Recycling Rate: 42.4% of municipal solid waste (2022 est.)
Total Water Resources: 52 billion cubic meters (2022 est.)

Transportation

Ireland's transportation infrastructure includes a well-developed network of roads, railways, and air travel facilities. The country has numerous airports and a merchant marine fleet, enhancing connectivity within Europe and beyond.

Total Railways: 1,688 km (2020)
Airports: 100 (2025)
Civil Aircraft Registration Code: EI
Merchant Marine: 94 vessels (2023)

Communications

Ireland boasts a high level of communication infrastructure, with a significant percentage of the population having access to the internet. The country is home to various broadcasting media, including public and commercial stations.

Internet Users: 97% of the population (2023 est.)
Mobile Subscriptions: 5.76 million (2023 est.)
Fixed-Line Subscriptions: 1.176 million (2023 est.)
Broadband Subscribers: 1.65 million (2023 est.)

Key Metrics

Metric	Value	Note
Population	5,233,461	2024 estimate
Area	70,273 sq km	Total area
GDP	$620.544 billion	PPP, 2024 estimate
GDP per Capita	$115,300	PPP, 2024 estimate
Unemployment Rate	4.4%	2024 estimate
Birth Rate	10.95 births/1,000 population	2025 estimate
Life Expectancy	82 years	2024 estimate
Electricity Access	100%	2022 estimate
Carbon Dioxide Emissions	35.486 million metric tonnes	2023 estimate
Total Railways	1,688 km	2020 data