Country Profile: Cyprus
Cyprus, an island nation in the Eastern Mediterranean, has a rich history marked by its status as a former British colony, achieving independence in 1960. The country experiences a temperate climate and is characterized by a mix of mountainous terrain and central plains. With a population of approximately 1.32 million, Cyprus boasts a services-oriented economy that heavily relies on tourism and trade, particularly linked to the European Union, of which it is a member. The governance structure is a presidential republic, impacted by the long-standing division of the island into Greek and Turkish administered areas.
Geography
Cyprus is situated in the Middle East, south of Turkey, and is strategically positioned in the Mediterranean Sea. The island covers an area of 9,251 square kilometers, with a coastline of 648 kilometers. Its climate is Mediterranean, featuring hot, dry summers and mild winters, while the terrain includes a central plain surrounded by mountains.
- 0.6 times the size of Connecticut
- 3,355 sq km administered by Turkish Cypriots
- Highest point: Mount Olympus at 1,951 m
- Natural resources include copper, asbestos, and gypsum
- 18.7% of land is forested (2022)
People and Society
Cyprus has a total population of approximately 1.32 million as of 2024, primarily consisting of Greek Cypriots (98.8%). The island's population density is highest in urban areas, particularly in the capital, Nicosia. The official languages are Greek and Turkish, reflecting the diverse cultural heritage of its communities.
- Population growth rate: 0.95% (2024 estimate)
- Life expectancy: 80.2 years (2024)
- Median age: 39.5 years (2024)
- Urban population: 67% (2023)
- Infant mortality rate: 8.1 deaths/1,000 live births (2024)
- Total fertility rate: 1.49 children born/woman (2024)
Economy
The Cypriot economy is characterized by a vibrant service sector, which contributes to over 76% of GDP. Tourism plays a significant role, alongside finance and construction. The overall economy has experienced steady growth with a real GDP of approximately $50.055 billion in 2024.
- Real GDP per capita: $53,300 (2024)
- Unemployment rate: 5.7% (2024)
- Inflation rate: 1.8% (2024)
- Exports: $35.12 billion (2024)
- Imports: $33.802 billion (2024)
- Public debt: 97.5% of GDP (2017)
Government
Cyprus operates as a presidential republic, with Nicosia being the capital. The government structure includes an executive branch led by the president and a unicameral legislative assembly. The constitution was ratified in 1960, though it has faced challenges due to ethnic tensions and the division of the island.
- President: Nikos Christodoulidis (since February 2023)
- Legislature: House of Representatives with 80 seats
- Voting age: 18 years (universal suffrage)
- Languages of government: Greek and Turkish
Military and Security
The Cypriot National Guard, which includes land, naval, and air forces, is responsible for the island's defense. Military expenditures amount to approximately 1.7% of GDP in 2024. Cyprus maintains a cautious military posture due to ongoing tensions with Turkey.
- Active personnel: Approximately 12,000 to 15,000 (2025)
- Military service age: 18-50 for compulsory service
- Modernization program announced in 2023
- UN Peacekeeping Force has been present since 1964
Energy
Cyprus has achieved full electricity access for its population, with significant proportions generated from fossil fuels and renewable sources. In 2023, the installed capacity reached about 2.288 million kW, primarily relying on fossil fuels.
- Electricity consumption: 5.197 billion kWh (2023)
- Renewable energy: Solar accounts for 16% of total installed capacity (2023)
- Energy consumption per capita: 107.188 million Btu/person (2023)
Environment
Cyprus faces several environmental challenges, including water scarcity and coastal degradation. The country is part of multiple international environmental agreements aimed at addressing climate change and protecting biodiversity.
- 99.8% of population has access to improved drinking water (2022)
- Municipal solid waste generated: 769,500 tons (2024)
- Total renewable water resources: 780 million cubic meters (2022)
Transportation
The transportation system in Cyprus includes a well-established network of roads and airports, alongside maritime facilities. As of 2025, the island has 14 airports and a merchant marine fleet of 1,005 vessels.
- Active airports: 14 (2025)
- Merchant marine: 1,005 vessels (2023)
Communications
Cyprus has a high rate of connectivity, with around 91% of the population using the internet. The telecommunications infrastructure includes fixed and mobile services, with substantial broadcast media presence.
- Mobile cellular subscriptions: 1.43 million (2023)
- Internet users: 91% of the population (2023)
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 1,320,525 | 2024 estimate |
| Area | 9,251 sq km | Total area |
| GDP (PPP) | $50.055 billion | 2024 estimate |
| GDP per capita | $53,300 | 2024 estimate |
| Unemployment rate | 5.7% | 2024 estimate |
| Life expectancy | 80.2 years | 2024 estimate |
| Total fertility rate | 1.49 children/woman | 2024 estimate |
| Military expenditure | 1.7% of GDP | 2024 estimate |
| Urban population | 67% | 2023 estimate |
| Infant mortality rate | 8.1 deaths/1,000 live births | 2024 estimate |
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