Country Profile: Guernsey
Guernsey, located in the English Channel north of France, comprises the main island along with several smaller islands. With a population of approximately 67,787, it functions as a self-governing British Crown dependency, maintaining a unique political status not fully integrated with the UK. The economy is robust, primarily driven by a strong financial sector, tourism, and agriculture, although it faced disruptions due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Guernsey enjoys a mild climate and lush landscapes, contributing to its appeal as a picturesque destination.
Geography
Guernsey is situated in Western Europe, strategically located in the English Channel. The main island has a total area of 78 square kilometers, characterized by flat terrain with low hills in the southwest, and a coastline stretching 50 kilometers. The climate is temperate, featuring mild winters and cool summers, with a significant portion of overcast days.
- 78 sq km: Total area of Guernsey
- 50 km: Total coastline length
- 114 m: Highest point at Le Moulin on Sark
- 12 nm: Territorial sea and exclusive fishing zone claims
People and Society
As of 2024, Guernsey has an estimated population of 67,787, with a demographic makeup that includes a majority of Guernsey natives of British and Norman-French descent. The society is diverse, with English and French as the primary languages spoken. The population's age distribution indicates a median age of 45 years, with a notable portion being elderly.
- 83.6 years: Life expectancy at birth for the total population (2024 est.)
- 14.3%: Population aged 0-14 years
- 21.5%: Population aged 65 years and over
- 9.7 births/1,000: Birth rate (2024 est.)
- 67.6%: Female population
Economy
Guernsey features a high-income economy largely based on services, particularly finance and tourism. The GDP is estimated at $12.508 billion for 2023, with a real GDP growth rate of 3.7%. The agricultural sector contributes minimally, with 0.6% of GDP, while the service industry dominates at 91.2%.
- 3.7%: Real GDP growth rate (2023 est.)
- $12.508 billion: GDP at official exchange rate (2023 est.)
- 6.3%: Unemployment rate (2024 est.)
- 82,400: Estimated labor force (2024 est.)
- 41.2%: Industrial production growth rate (2023 est.)
Government
Guernsey operates as a parliamentary democracy under the British Crown, with the States of Deliberation acting as its legislative body. The chief minister is the head of government, while the King of the UK serves as the head of state through a lieutenant governor. Guernsey has its own legal system based on Norman customary law, supplemented by elements of French civil code and English common law.
- 16 years: Voting age for universal suffrage
- 38: Number of seats in the legislature
- 20%: Percentage of women in the legislature
- 5 hours: Time difference with Washington, DC (Standard Time)
Military and Security
Defense responsibilities for Guernsey are handled by the UK, which ensures the security and defense of the island under its constitutional obligations.
Energy
Guernsey enjoys 100% electrification, ensuring that the entire population has access to electricity as of 2022.
Environment
Guernsey faces several environmental challenges, including coastal erosion, flooding, and declining biodiversity. Urbanization is one of the key issues, with 31.2% of the population living in urban areas as of 2023.
Transportation
Guernsey has a well-connected transportation network with two airports and several small ports. It has a total of three ports, the most significant being Alderney Harbour and Saint Peter Port.
- 3: Total number of ports (2024)
- 2: Airports expected by 2025
- 1: Heliport in operation by 2025
Communications
The communication infrastructure in Guernsey is modern, with a high rate of mobile and internet usage. As of 2021, 86.6% of the population are internet users.
- 71,485: Mobile subscriptions (2021 est.)
- 33,930: Fixed telephone subscriptions (2021 est.)
- 40: Broadband subscriptions per 100 inhabitants (2020 est.)
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 67,787 | 2024 Estimate |
| Area | 78 sq km | Total area |
| GDP | $12.508 billion | 2023 Estimate |
| Unemployment Rate | 6.3% | 2024 Estimate |
| Life Expectancy | 83.6 years | 2024 Estimate |
| Birth Rate | 9.7 births/1,000 people | 2024 Estimate |
| Urban Population | 31.2% | 2023 |
| Median Age | 45 years | 2024 Estimate |
| Electric Access | 100% | 2022 Estimate |
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