Country Profile: Romania
Romania is a country located in Southeastern Europe, bordered by the Black Sea, Bulgaria, and Ukraine. With a population of approximately 18.1 million, it has a diverse ethnic composition primarily of Romanians, alongside significant Hungarian and Romani communities. The Romanian economy is classified as high-income and a member of the European Union, facing challenges such as inflation and a skilled labor shortage, while its governance is structured as a semi-presidential republic.
Geography
Romania encompasses an area of 238,391 sq km, featuring diverse terrains such as the Carpathian Mountains and the Danube River, which forms much of its southern border. The country experiences a temperate climate with cold winters and warm summers, divided into several natural regions. Romania has a 225 km coastline along the Black Sea, and its significant geographical position serves as a natural corridor connecting the Balkans, Moldova, and Ukraine.
- Elevation range: Highest point at 2,544 m (Moldoveanu)
- Land boundaries: 2,844 km, sharing borders with Bulgaria, Hungary, Moldova, Serbia, and Ukraine
- Major river: Danube, spanning 2,888 km through multiple countries
People and Society
As of 2024, Romania's population is estimated at 18,148,155, with a median age of 45.5 years. The country has a rich cultural tapestry with 89.3% of the population identifying as Romanian, alongside Hungarian and Romani minorities. Urbanization is moderate, with 54.7% of residents living in urban areas. Despite high literacy rates of 99%, Romania faces demographic challenges, including a negative population growth rate.
- Life expectancy: 76.9 years (2024)
- Birth rate: 8.5 births/1,000 population (2024)
- Dependency ratio: 61.3 (total dependency ratio, 2024)
Economy
Romania's economy is characterized by its high-income status and membership in the EU. In 2024, the GDP (PPP) is projected to reach $774.376 billion with a GDP growth rate of 0.8%. The economy relies heavily on services, which account for 62.5% of GDP, while facing challenges like persistent inflation and a high public debt ratio. Romania's agriculture is diverse, cultivating wheat, maize, and sunflowers among other products.
- Real GDP per capita: $40,600 (2024)
- Unemployment rate: 5.4% (2024)
- Public debt: 50.9% of GDP (2022)
Government
Romania operates as a semi-presidential republic with a government structure that includes a president and a prime minister. The latest constitution was adopted in 1991, and Romania is notable for its active participation in NATO and the EU. The political landscape consists of multiple parties, with the most recent presidential election held in 2025.
- Capital: Bucharest
- Citizenship: Dual citizenship recognized
- Suffrage age: 18 years
Military and Security
The Romanian Armed Forces consist of land, naval, and air components, focusing on national defense and international commitments. Military expenditure was 2.3% of GDP in 2024, reflecting Romania's strategic military partnerships, particularly within NATO. The country also addresses various security challenges, including regional threats and terrorism.
- Active personnel: Approx. 70,000 (2025)
- Military deployments: Up to 120 in Poland (NATO)
Energy
Romania's energy sector is marked by a diverse mix of generation sources, including fossil fuels, nuclear, and renewable energy. The country has 100% electrification of its population and operates several nuclear reactors, contributing significantly to its electricity supply. In 2023, Romania's electricity consumption reached 48.73 billion kWh, with notable exports as well.
- Installed capacity: 19.748 million kW (2023)
- Natural gas production: 9.632 billion cubic meters (2023)
Environment
Romania faces environmental concerns such as soil erosion, air pollution, and water contamination, particularly in the Danube Delta region. The country is a participant in various international environmental agreements aimed at addressing climate change and biodiversity.
- Agricultural land: 55.1% of total area (2022)
- Forest coverage: 30.1% (2022)
Transportation
Romania has a comprehensive transportation network that includes 10,628 km of railways and 103 airports. The infrastructure facilitates both internal and international travel, supporting the economy and connecting urban and rural areas.
- Merchant marine: 127 vessels (2023)
- Total ports: 11 (2024)
Communications
Communications in Romania are facilitated by a mixture of public and private broadcasters. With an internet penetration rate of 89%, the country has a growing digital landscape, supported by numerous fixed and mobile subscriptions.
- Mobile cellular subscriptions: 23.2 million (2022)
- Fixed broadband subscriptions: 6.63 million (2023)
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 18,148,155 | (2024 est.) |
| Area | 238,391 sq km | Total area |
| GDP (PPP) | $774.376 billion | (2024 est.) |
| Energy consumption per capita | 59.377 million Btu/person | (2023 est.) |
| Birth rate | 8.5 births/1,000 population | (2024 est.) |
| Unemployment rate | 5.4% | (2024 est.) |
| Life expectancy | 76.9 years | (2024 est.) |
| Median age | 45.5 years | (2024 est.) |
| Total fertility rate | 1.63 children born/woman | (2024 est.) |
| Urban population | 54.7% | (2023) |
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