Cyprus

World Book Index

Introduction

Cyprus, an island nation in the Eastern Mediterranean, boasts a rich history and cultural heritage shaped by various civilizations over millennia. Gaining independence from British colonial rule in 1960, the country has faced ongoing challenges, particularly the division between the Greek Cypriot majority and the Turkish Cypriot minority. Since 1974, Turkey has maintained control over a portion of the island, complicating the political landscape. Despite these tensions, Cyprus became a member of the European Union in 2004, although EU legislation does not extend to the Turkish-controlled areas, highlighting the complexities of governance and international relations on the island.

Neighboring countries

Egypt - Greece - Israel - Lebanon - Syria - Turkey

Geography

Area
Total: 9,251 sq km
Land: 9,241 sq km
Water: 10 sq km

Cyprus is strategically located at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, making it a significant geopolitical entity. The island features a diverse topography, characterized by mountainous regions, fertile plains, and a stunning coastline that stretches for miles. The climate is predominantly temperate, with a Mediterranean influence that brings hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. This climate supports a variety of ecosystems and agricultural activities, contributing to the island's economy. The natural resources of Cyprus include copper, pyrites, asbestos, gypsum, timber, salt, marble, and clay earth pigment, which play a vital role in its industrial activities and exports.

People and Society

Population
Total: 1,320,525 (2024 estimated)

Ethnic groups
Greek 98.8%, other 1% (includes Maronite, Armenian, Turkish-Cypriot), unspecified 0.2% (2011 estimated)

Languages
Greek (official) 80.9%, Turkish (official) 0.2%, English 4.1%, Romanian 2.9%, Russian 2.5%, Bulgarian 2.2%, Arabic 1.2%, Filipino 1.1%, other 4.3%, unspecified 0.6% (2011 estimated)

Religions
Eastern Orthodox Christian 89.1%, Roman Catholic 2.9%, Protestant/Anglican 2%, Muslim 1.8%, Buddhist 1%, other (includes Maronite Catholic, Armenian Apostolic, Hindu) 1.4%, unknown 1.1%, none/atheist 0.6% (2011 estimated)

Population growth rate
0.95% (2024 estimated)

The population of Cyprus is predominantly Greek, reflecting its historical and cultural ties to Greece. The diverse ethnic composition includes a small percentage of Turkish Cypriots and other minority groups, contributing to the island's multicultural fabric. The official languages, Greek and Turkish, alongside English, which is widely spoken, indicate the island's colonial past and its role as a bridge between cultures. The religious landscape is similarly diverse, with the majority adhering to Eastern Orthodox Christianity, while other faiths coexist, showcasing the island's pluralistic society. The population growth rate of 0.95% suggests a stable demographic trend, influenced by factors such as migration and natural increase.

Government

Government type
Republic of Cyprus - presidential republic; self-declared "Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus" (TRNC) - parliamentary republic with enhanced presidency

Capital
Name: Nicosia (Lefkosia/Lefkosa)

Executive branch
Chief of state: President Nikos CHRISTODOULIDIS (since 28 February 2023)
Head of government: President Nikos CHRISTODOULIDIS (since 28 February 2023)

Diplomatic representation in the US
Chief of mission: Ambassador Evangelos SAVVA (since 15 September 2023)

Diplomatic representation from the US
Chief of mission: Ambassador Julie Davis FISHER (since 21 February 2023); note - Ambassador FISHER is temporarily assigned to the U.S. Embassy in Kyiv, Ukraine as Chargé d’ Affaires ad interim; she remains fully accredited in Cyprus

The government of Cyprus operates as a presidential republic, where the President serves as both the head of state and government, reflecting a centralized political structure. The self-declared Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus operates under a parliamentary republic system, which adds complexity to the governance of the island. Nicosia, the capital, remains the last divided capital in Europe, symbolizing the ongoing political challenges. The diplomatic landscape is characterized by active engagement with international partners, including the United States, which maintains a diplomatic mission in Cyprus, further emphasizing the island's strategic importance in regional politics.

Economy

Economic overview
Cyprus boasts a services-based, high-income EU island economy that is heavily reliant on tourism. The economy has demonstrated sustained growth, particularly following the recovery of the national banking system and the easing of COVID-19 trade restrictions. High living standards are prevalent, and Cyprus is recognized as a financial hub, with its stock exchange serving as an investment bridge between EU and EEU member countries. This strategic positioning enhances its economic resilience and attractiveness to foreign investors.

Real GDP (purchasing power parity)
$50.055 billion (2024 estimated)
$48.386 billion (2023 estimated)
$47.085 billion (2022 estimated)

Real GDP per capita
$53,300 (2024 estimated)
$52,200 (2023 estimated)
$51,600 (2022 estimated)

Exports
$35.12 billion (2024 estimated)
$32.922 billion (2023 estimated)
$32.563 billion (2022 estimated)

Exports - partners
Libya 14%, Greece 11%, Lebanon 8%, Bermuda 7%, Marshall Islands 5% (2023)

Exports - commodities
ships, refined petroleum, packaged medicine, cheese, scented mixtures (2023)

Imports
$33.802 billion (2024 estimated)
$32.556 billion (2023 estimated)
$31.486 billion (2022 estimated)

Imports - partners
Greece 20%, UK 10%, Italy 7%, Turkey 6%, Spain 6% (2023)

Imports - commodities
refined petroleum, ships, cars, packaged medicine, coal tar oil (2023)

Human Development Index

The country's Human Development Index (HDI) is 0.913, ranking it 32nd out of 193 countries tested. (more information)

World Happiness Report

The World Happiness Report ranked the country 53rd out of 158 countries tested with a score of 6.068. (more information)