Country Profile: Jersey
Jersey, the largest of the Channel Islands, is a British Crown dependency located in the English Channel, northwest of France. With a population of approximately 103,387, it boasts a mild temperate climate and a gently rolling terrain. The island's economy is robust, driven by sectors such as offshore banking, finance, and tourism, although living costs are among the highest in the world. Jersey is self-governing, with a parliamentary democracy, while the UK handles its defense and international representation.
Geography
Jersey spans an area of 116 square kilometers, making it roughly two-thirds the size of Washington, D.C. The island features a varied terrain with low, rugged hills along its northern coast and a coastline that measures 70 kilometers. Its temperate climate and natural resources such as arable land support a diverse agricultural sector.
- 43.3% of Jersey is used as agricultural land (2022).
- The highest point, Les Platons, reaches 136 meters.
- Jersey has 12 nautical miles of territorial sea and exclusive fishing zone.
People and Society
Jersey has an estimated population of 103,387 as of 2024, with a relatively balanced gender distribution. The population embraces a mix of ethnicities, with approximately 44.4% identifying as Jersey nationals and 30.5% as British. The official language is English, but Portuguese is also spoken by a notable minority.
- 85.2% of the population identifies as Christian (2020).
- The median age is 38.2 years (2024).
- Life expectancy is 83 years at birth (2024).
- The birth rate is 12.2 births per 1,000 population (2024).
Economy
Jersey's economy is characterized by a strong services sector, accounting for 91.2% of its GDP, with offshore banking and finance leading the way. Despite being one of the world's most expensive places to live, the island has a minimal welfare system and a vibrant tourism industry. The GDP for 2023 stands at around $12.5 billion.
- Real GDP growth was 3.7% in 2023.
- The unemployment rate is 6.3% (2024).
- Agriculture contributes only 0.6% to the GDP (2023).
Government
As a British Crown dependency, Jersey has a parliamentary democracy governed by the Assembly of the States of Jersey. The island does not have first-order administrative divisions, instead comprising 12 parishes. The chief of state is King Charles III, with significant governance conducted by the elected Chief Minister.
- The Assembly includes 54 members, with elections held every 4 years.
- Suffrage is granted at 16 years of age.
- The country has a unwritten constitution combining statutes and common law.
Military and Security
Jersey relies on the UK for its defense and international relations, with no standing military of its own. This arrangement allows the island to focus on domestic governance and its unique economic prospects.
Energy
Jersey enjoys 100% electrification of its population, ensuring that all residents have access to electricity, which supports a modern lifestyle.
Environment
The island faces environmental challenges, including habitat loss, species decline, and pollution issues. The temperate climate and land use dedicated primarily to agriculture impact the local ecology.
Transportation
Jersey is serviced by a single airport and a minor port, Saint Helier Harbour, which accommodates the ferry services crucial for its connectivity with mainland Europe and the UK.
- The airport is projected to serve 1 terminal by 2025.
- Saint Helier Harbour is identified as the only key port.
Communications
The communications infrastructure in Jersey is well-developed, with high mobile and internet subscription rates. A substantial percentage of the population uses mobile phones and fixed-line connections.
- 124,083 mobile cellular subscriptions were recorded in 2021.
- 41% of the population were internet users as of 2012.
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 103,387 | 2024 estimate |
| Area | 116 sq km | Total area |
| GDP | $12.508 billion | 2023 estimate |
| Unemployment Rate | 6.3% | 2024 estimate |
| Birth Rate | 12.2 births/1,000 | 2024 estimate |
| Life Expectancy | 83 years | 2024 estimate |
| Agricultural Land | 43.3% | 2022 estimate |
| Median Age | 38.2 years | 2024 estimate |
| Electric Access | 100% | 2022 estimate |
| Urban Population | 31.2% | 2023 estimate |
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