Knelstrom Intelligence · World Factbook
Ireland
CapitalDublin
Population5,484,367
GDP$721.7bn
Area69,797 km²
RegionEurope & Central Asia
Data sources current · last checked September 20, 2026 2:10 am
Country facts
Overview
Background
Celtic tribes arrived in Ireland between 600 and 150 B.C. Norse invasions that began in the late 8th century finally ended when King Brian BORU defeated the Danes in 1014. Norman invasions began in the 12th century and set off more than seven centuries of Anglo-Irish struggle marked by fierce rebellions and harsh repressions. The Irish famine of the mid-19th century caused an almost 25-percent decline in the island's population through starvation, disease, and emigration. The population of the island continued to fall until the 1960s, but over the last 50 years, Ireland's high birthrate has made it demographically one of the youngest populations in the EU.
The modern Irish state traces its origins to the failed 1916 Easter Monday Uprising that galvanized nationalist sentiment. The ensuing guerrilla war led to independence from the UK in 1921 with the signing of the Anglo-Irish Treaty and the creation of the Irish Free State. The treaty was deeply controversial in Ireland, in part because it helped solidify the country's partition, with six of the 32 counties remaining in the UK as Northern Ireland. The split between pro-Treaty and anti-Treaty partisans led to the Irish Civil War (1922-23). The traditionally dominant political parties in Ireland, Fine Gael and Fianna Fail, are de facto descendants of the opposing sides of the treaty debate. Ireland declared itself a republic in 1949 and formally left the British Dominion.
Beginning in the 1960s, deep sectarian divides between the Catholic and Protestant populations and systemic discrimination in Northern Ireland erupted into years of violence known as the Troubles. In 1998, the governments of Ireland and the UK, along with most political parties in Northern Ireland, reached the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement with the support of the US. This agreement helped end the Troubles and initiated a new phase of cooperation between the Irish and British Governments.
Ireland was neutral in World War II and continues its policy of military neutrality. Ireland joined the European Community in 1973 and the euro-zone currency union in 1999. The economic boom years of the Celtic Tiger (1995-2007) saw rapid economic growth that came to an abrupt end in 2008 with the meltdown of the Irish banking system. As a small, open economy, Ireland has excelled at courting foreign direct investment, especially from US multi-nationals, which has helped the economy recover from the financial crisis and insulated it somewhat from the economic shocks of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Reference: 2008, 2007, 1999, 1998The modern Irish state traces its origins to the failed 1916 Easter Monday Uprising that galvanized nationalist sentiment. The ensuing guerrilla war led to independence from the UK in 1921 with the signing of the Anglo-Irish Treaty and the creation of the Irish Free State. The treaty was deeply controversial in Ireland, in part because it helped solidify the country's partition, with six of the 32 counties remaining in the UK as Northern Ireland. The split between pro-Treaty and anti-Treaty partisans led to the Irish Civil War (1922-23). The traditionally dominant political parties in Ireland, Fine Gael and Fianna Fail, are de facto descendants of the opposing sides of the treaty debate. Ireland declared itself a republic in 1949 and formally left the British Dominion.
Beginning in the 1960s, deep sectarian divides between the Catholic and Protestant populations and systemic discrimination in Northern Ireland erupted into years of violence known as the Troubles. In 1998, the governments of Ireland and the UK, along with most political parties in Northern Ireland, reached the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement with the support of the US. This agreement helped end the Troubles and initiated a new phase of cooperation between the Irish and British Governments.
Ireland was neutral in World War II and continues its policy of military neutrality. Ireland joined the European Community in 1973 and the euro-zone currency union in 1999. The economic boom years of the Celtic Tiger (1995-2007) saw rapid economic growth that came to an abrupt end in 2008 with the meltdown of the Irish banking system. As a small, open economy, Ireland has excelled at courting foreign direct investment, especially from US multi-nationals, which has helped the economy recover from the financial crisis and insulated it somewhat from the economic shocks of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Geography
Location
Western Europe, occupying five-sixths of the island of Ireland in the North Atlantic Ocean, west of Great Britain
Map references
Europe
Area
total: 70,273 sq km
land: 68,883 sq km
water: 1,390 sq km
land: 68,883 sq km
water: 1,390 sq km
Area - comparative
slightly larger than West Virginia
Land boundaries
total: 490 km
border countries: UK 499 km
border countries: UK 499 km
Coastline
1,448 km
Maritime claims
territorial sea: 12 nm
exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm
exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm
Climate
temperate maritime; modified by North Atlantic Current; mild winters, cool summers; consistently humid; overcast about half the time
Terrain
mostly flat to rolling interior plain surrounded by rugged hills and low mountains; sea cliffs on west coast
Elevation
highest point: Carrauntoohil 1,041 m
lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 118 m
lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 118 m
Natural resources
natural gas, peat, copper, lead, zinc, silver, barite, gypsum, limestone, dolomite
Land use
agricultural land: 60.8% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: arable land: arable land: 6.4% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent crops: permanent crops: 0% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent pasture: permanent pasture: 54.4% (2023 est.)
forest: 11.9% (2023 est.)
other: 27.3% (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023agricultural land: arable land: arable land: 6.4% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent crops: permanent crops: 0% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent pasture: permanent pasture: 54.4% (2023 est.)
forest: 11.9% (2023 est.)
other: 27.3% (2023 est.)
Irrigated land
0 sq km (2022)
Reference: 2022Population distribution
population distribution is weighted to the eastern side of the island, with the largest concentration in and around Dublin; populations in the west are small due to mountainous land, poorer soil, and lack of transport routes
Natural hazards
rare extreme weather events
Geography - note
strategic location on major air and sea routes between North America and northern Europe; over 40% of the population resides within 100 km of Dublin
Population & Society
Nationality
noun: Irishman(men), Irishwoman(women), Irish (collective plural)
adjective: Irish
adjective: Irish
Ethnic groups
Irish 76.6%, Irish travelers 0.6%, other White 9.9%, Asian 3.3%, Black 1.5%, other (includes Arab, Roma, and persons of mixed backgrounds) 2%, unspecified 2.6% (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022Languages
English (official, the language generally used), Irish (Gaelic or Gaeilge) (official, spoken by approximately 37.7% of the population)
Religions
Roman Catholic 69.2% (includes lapsed), Protestant 3.7% (Church of Ireland/England/Anglican/Episcopalian 2.5%, other Protestant 1.2%), Orthodox 2%, other Christian 0.9%, Muslim 1.6%, other 1.4%, agnostic/atheist 0.1%, none 14.5%, unspecified 6.7% (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022Age structure
0-14 years: 18.6% (male 498,124/female 477,848)
15-64 years: 65.5% (male 1,701,680/female 1,728,041)
65 years and over: 15.8% (2024 est.) (male 390,738/female 437,030)
Reference: 202415-64 years: 65.5% (male 1,701,680/female 1,728,041)
65 years and over: 15.8% (2024 est.) (male 390,738/female 437,030)
Dependency ratios
total dependency ratio: 52.6 (2024 est.)
youth dependency ratio: 28.5 (2024 est.)
elderly dependency ratio: 24.1 (2024 est.)
potential support ratio: 4.1 (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024youth dependency ratio: 28.5 (2024 est.)
elderly dependency ratio: 24.1 (2024 est.)
potential support ratio: 4.1 (2024 est.)
Median age
total: 40.2 years (2024 est.)
male: 39.7 years
female: 40.6 years
Reference: 2024male: 39.7 years
female: 40.6 years
Population growth rate
0.93% (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024Birth rate
11.1 births/1,000 population (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024Death rate
7.4 deaths/1,000 population (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024Population distribution
population distribution is weighted to the eastern side of the island, with the largest concentration in and around Dublin; populations in the west are small due to mountainous land, poorer soil, and lack of transport routes
Major urban areas - population
1.270 million DUBLIN (capital) (2023)
Reference: 2023Sex ratio
at birth: 1.06 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.04 male(s)/female
15-64 years: 0.98 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.89 male(s)/female
total population: 0.98 male(s)/female (2024 est.)
Reference: 20240-14 years: 1.04 male(s)/female
15-64 years: 0.98 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.89 male(s)/female
total population: 0.98 male(s)/female (2024 est.)
Mother's mean age at first birth
30.9 years (2020 est.)
Reference: 2020Maternal mortality ratio
4 deaths/100,000 live births (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023Gross reproduction rate
0.84 (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024Drinking water source
improved: urban: urban: 95.4% of population (2022 est.)
improved: rural: rural: 97% of population (2022 est.)
improved: total: total: 96% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: urban: urban: 4.6% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: rural: rural: 3% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: total: total: 4% of population (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022improved: rural: rural: 97% of population (2022 est.)
improved: total: total: 96% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: urban: urban: 4.6% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: rural: rural: 3% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: total: total: 4% of population (2022 est.)
Health expenditure
Health expenditure (as % of GDP): 6.1% of GDP (2022)
Health expenditure (as % of national budget): 22.3% of national budget (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022Health expenditure (as % of national budget): 22.3% of national budget (2022 est.)
Physician density
3.88 physicians/1,000 population (2023)
Reference: 2023Hospital bed density
2.9 beds/1,000 population (2020 est.)
Reference: 2020Sanitation facility access
improved: urban: urban: 94.8% of population (2022 est.)
improved: rural: rural: 98.2% of population (2022 est.)
improved: total: total: 96.1% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: urban: urban: 5.2% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: rural: rural: 1.8% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: total: total: 3.9% of population (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022improved: rural: rural: 98.2% of population (2022 est.)
improved: total: total: 96.1% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: urban: urban: 5.2% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: rural: rural: 1.8% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: total: total: 3.9% of population (2022 est.)
Obesity - adult prevalence rate
25.3% (2016)
Reference: 2016Alcohol consumption per capita
total: 10.91 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
beer: 4.92 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
wine: 2.88 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
spirits: 2.29 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
other alcohols: 0.82 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Reference: 2019beer: 4.92 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
wine: 2.88 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
spirits: 2.29 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
other alcohols: 0.82 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Tobacco use
total: 16.8% (2025 est.)
male: 19.2% (2025 est.)
female: 14.4% (2025 est.)
male: 19.2% (2025 est.)
female: 14.4% (2025 est.)
Currently married women (ages 15-49)
52.1% (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education)
total: 19 years (2022 est.)
male: 19 years (2022 est.)
female: 20 years (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022male: 19 years (2022 est.)
female: 20 years (2022 est.)
Migration & Displacement
Immigrant/emigrant stock measures the number of international migrants resident in, or originating from, the country; it is not the same as annual immigration/emigration flows.
Refugees and internally displaced persons
refugees: 156,441 (2024 est.)
stateless persons: 48 (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024stateless persons: 48 (2024 est.)
Government & Politics
| Office | Holder | Affiliation | From | Status | Evidence |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Head of state | Catherine Connolly | — | 2025-11-11 | Current | Reported |
| Head of government | Micheál Martin | — | 2025-01-23 | Current | Reported |
Country name
conventional long form: none
conventional short form: Ireland
local long form: none
local short form: Eire
etymology: the Irish name Eire evolved from the Gaelic name Eriu, which is possibly derived from the Old Celtic iveriu, meaning "good land;" the English name, Ireland, is a direct translation
conventional short form: Ireland
local long form: none
local short form: Eire
etymology: the Irish name Eire evolved from the Gaelic name Eriu, which is possibly derived from the Old Celtic iveriu, meaning "good land;" the English name, Ireland, is a direct translation
Capital
name: Dublin
geographic coordinates: 53 19 N, 6 14 W
time difference: UTC 0 (5 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: derived from the Irish words dubh (black or dark) and linn (pool), referring to the color of the Liffey River
geographic coordinates: 53 19 N, 6 14 W
time difference: UTC 0 (5 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: derived from the Irish words dubh (black or dark) and linn (pool), referring to the color of the Liffey River
Administrative divisions
28 counties and 3 cities*; Carlow, Cavan, Clare, Cork, Cork*, Donegal, Dublin*, Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown, Fingal, Galway, Galway*, Kerry, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Leitrim, Limerick, Longford, Louth, Mayo, Meath, Monaghan, Offaly, Roscommon, Sligo, South Dublin, Tipperary, Waterford, Westmeath, Wexford, Wicklow
Legal system
common law system based on the English model but substantially modified by customary law; Supreme Court reviews legislative acts
Constitution
history: previous 1922; latest drafted 14 June 1937, adopted by plebiscite 1 July 1937, effective 29 December 1937
amendment process: proposed as bills by Parliament; passage requires majority vote by both the Senate and House of Representatives, majority vote in a referendum, and presidential signature
Reference: 1937, 1922amendment process: proposed as bills by Parliament; passage requires majority vote by both the Senate and House of Representatives, majority vote in a referendum, and presidential signature
International law organization participation
accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction with reservations; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
Citizenship
citizenship by birth: no, unless a parent of a child born in Ireland has been legally resident in Ireland for at least three of the four years prior to the birth of the child
citizenship by descent only: yes
dual citizenship recognized: yes
residency requirement for naturalization: 4 of the previous 8 years
citizenship by descent only: yes
dual citizenship recognized: yes
residency requirement for naturalization: 4 of the previous 8 years
Suffrage
18 years of age; universal
Executive branch
chief of state: President Catherine CONNOLLY (since 11 November 2025)
head of government: Taoiseach (Prime Minister) Michael MARTIN (since 23 January 2025)
cabinet: Cabinet nominated by the prime minister, appointed by the president, approved by the Dali Eireann (lower house of Parliament)
election/appointment process: president directly elected by majority popular vote for a 7-year term (eligible for a second term); taoiseach (prime minister) nominated by the House of Representatives (Dail Eireann), appointed by the president
most recent election date: 26 October 2018
election results: 2025: Michael MARTIN is elected taoiseach by parliament, 95 votes to 76, and is appointed taoiseach by the president
2024: Simon HARRIS is elected taoiseach by parliament, 88 votes to 69, and is appointed taoiseach by the president
2018: Michael D. HIGGINS reelected president in first round; percent of vote in first round - Michael D. HIGGINS (independent) 55.8%, Peter CASEY (independent) 23.3%, Sean GALLAGHER (independent) 6.4%, Liadh NI RIADA (Sinn Fein) 6.4%, Joan FREEMAN (independent) 6%, Gavin DUFFY (independent) 2.2%
expected date of next election: no later than November 2025
Reference: 2025, 2024, 2018head of government: Taoiseach (Prime Minister) Michael MARTIN (since 23 January 2025)
cabinet: Cabinet nominated by the prime minister, appointed by the president, approved by the Dali Eireann (lower house of Parliament)
election/appointment process: president directly elected by majority popular vote for a 7-year term (eligible for a second term); taoiseach (prime minister) nominated by the House of Representatives (Dail Eireann), appointed by the president
most recent election date: 26 October 2018
election results: 2025: Michael MARTIN is elected taoiseach by parliament, 95 votes to 76, and is appointed taoiseach by the president
2024: Simon HARRIS is elected taoiseach by parliament, 88 votes to 69, and is appointed taoiseach by the president
2018: Michael D. HIGGINS reelected president in first round; percent of vote in first round - Michael D. HIGGINS (independent) 55.8%, Peter CASEY (independent) 23.3%, Sean GALLAGHER (independent) 6.4%, Liadh NI RIADA (Sinn Fein) 6.4%, Joan FREEMAN (independent) 6%, Gavin DUFFY (independent) 2.2%
expected date of next election: no later than November 2025
Legislative branch
legislature name: Parliament (Oireachtas)
legislative structure: bicameral
legislative structure: bicameral
Legislative branch - lower chamber
chamber name: House of Representatives (Dáil Éireann)
number of seats: 174 (all directly elected)
electoral system: proportional representation
scope of elections: full renewal
term in office: 5 years
most recent election date: 1/29/2025 to 1/30/2025
parties elected and seats per party: Fianna Fáil (48); Sinn Féin (39); Fine Gael (38); Social Democratic Party (11); Labour Party (11); Independents (16); Other (11)
percentage of women in chamber: 25.3%
expected date of next election: November 2029
Reference: 2029, 2025number of seats: 174 (all directly elected)
electoral system: proportional representation
scope of elections: full renewal
term in office: 5 years
most recent election date: 1/29/2025 to 1/30/2025
parties elected and seats per party: Fianna Fáil (48); Sinn Féin (39); Fine Gael (38); Social Democratic Party (11); Labour Party (11); Independents (16); Other (11)
percentage of women in chamber: 25.3%
expected date of next election: November 2029
Legislative branch - upper chamber
chamber name: Senate (Seanad Éireann - Senate)
number of seats: 60 (49 indirectly elected; 11 appointed)
scope of elections: full renewal
term in office: 5 years
most recent election date: 11/29/2024
parties elected and seats per party: Fianna Fail (19); Fine Gael (18); Sinn Fein (6); Independents (12); other (5)
percentage of women in chamber: 45%
expected date of next election: January 2030
Reference: 2030, 2024number of seats: 60 (49 indirectly elected; 11 appointed)
scope of elections: full renewal
term in office: 5 years
most recent election date: 11/29/2024
parties elected and seats per party: Fianna Fail (19); Fine Gael (18); Sinn Fein (6); Independents (12); other (5)
percentage of women in chamber: 45%
expected date of next election: January 2030
Judicial branch
highest court(s): Supreme Court of Ireland (consists of the chief justice, 9 judges, 2 ex-officio members -- the presidents of the High Court and Court of Appeal -- and organized in 3-, 5-, or 7-judge panels, depending on the importance or complexity of an issue of law)
judge selection and term of office: judges nominated by the prime minister and Cabinet and appointed by the president; chief justice serves in the position for 7 years; judges can serve until age 70
subordinate courts: High Court, Court of Appeal; circuit and district courts; criminal courts
judge selection and term of office: judges nominated by the prime minister and Cabinet and appointed by the president; chief justice serves in the position for 7 years; judges can serve until age 70
subordinate courts: High Court, Court of Appeal; circuit and district courts; criminal courts
Political parties
Aontu
Solidarity-People Before Profit or PBP-S
Fianna Fail
Fine Gael
Green Party
Human Dignity Alliance
Independent Ireland
Labor (Labour) Party
100% Redress
Right to Change or RTC
Sinn Fein
Social Democrats
Socialist Party
The Workers' Party
Solidarity-People Before Profit or PBP-S
Fianna Fail
Fine Gael
Green Party
Human Dignity Alliance
Independent Ireland
Labor (Labour) Party
100% Redress
Right to Change or RTC
Sinn Fein
Social Democrats
Socialist Party
The Workers' Party
Diplomatic representation in the US
chief of mission: Ambassador Geraldine BYRNE NASON (since 16 September 2022)
chancery: 2234 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
telephone: [1] (202) 462-3939
FAX: [1] (202) 232-5993
email address and website: https://www.ireland.ie/en/usa/washington/
consulate(s) general: Atlanta, Austin (TX), Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, San Francisco
Reference: 2022chancery: 2234 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
telephone: [1] (202) 462-3939
FAX: [1] (202) 232-5993
email address and website: https://www.ireland.ie/en/usa/washington/
consulate(s) general: Atlanta, Austin (TX), Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, San Francisco
Diplomatic representation from the US
chief of mission: Ambassador Edward S. WALSH (since 1 July 2025)
embassy: 42 Elgin Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4
mailing address: 5290 Dublin Place, Washington DC 20521-5290
telephone: [353] (1) 668-8777
FAX: [353] (1) 688-8056
email address and website: ACSDublin@state.gov
https://ie.usembassy.gov/
embassy: 42 Elgin Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4
mailing address: 5290 Dublin Place, Washington DC 20521-5290
telephone: [353] (1) 668-8777
FAX: [353] (1) 688-8056
email address and website: ACSDublin@state.gov
https://ie.usembassy.gov/
International organization participation
ADB (nonregional member), Australia Group, BIS, CD, CE, EAPC, EBRD, ECB, EIB, EMU, ESA, EU, FAO, FATF, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC (national committees), ICCt, ICRM, IDA, IEA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, IGAD (partners), IHO, ILO, IMF, IMO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, IPU, ISO, ITSO, ITU, ITUC (NGOs), MIGA, MINURSO, MONUSCO, NEA, NSG, OAS (observer), OECD, OPCW, OSCE, Paris Club, PCA, PFP, UN, UNCTAD, UNDOF, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNIFIL, UNOCI, UNRWA, UNTSO, UPU, Wassenaar Arrangement, WCO, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO, ZC
Independence
6 December 1921 (from the UK); 6 December 1922 (Irish Free State established); 18 April 1949 (Republic of Ireland Act enabled)
Reference: 1949, 1922, 1921National holiday
Saint Patrick's Day, 17 March
note: note: marks the traditional death date of Saint Patrick, patron saint of Ireland, during the latter half of the fifth century A.D. (most commonly cited years are c. 461 and c. 493); Saint Patrick's feast day was celebrated as early as the ninth century, but it only became an official public holiday in 1903
Reference: 1903note: note: marks the traditional death date of Saint Patrick, patron saint of Ireland, during the latter half of the fifth century A.D. (most commonly cited years are c. 461 and c. 493); Saint Patrick's feast day was celebrated as early as the ninth century, but it only became an official public holiday in 1903
Flag
description: three equal vertical bands of green (left side), white, and orange
meaning: the flag colors have no official meaning, but a common interpretation is that the green stands for the Irish nationalist tradition, orange for the Orange tradition (minority supporters of William of Orange), and white for peace or a lasting truce between the green and the orange
note: note: similar to the flag of Cote d'Ivoire, which is shorter and has the colors reversed; also similar to the flag of Italy, which is shorter and has red instead of orange
meaning: the flag colors have no official meaning, but a common interpretation is that the green stands for the Irish nationalist tradition, orange for the Orange tradition (minority supporters of William of Orange), and white for peace or a lasting truce between the green and the orange
note: note: similar to the flag of Cote d'Ivoire, which is shorter and has the colors reversed; also similar to the flag of Italy, which is shorter and has red instead of orange
National symbol(s)
harp, shamrock (trefoil)
National color(s)
blue, green
National coat of arms
the coat of arms features a gold harp on a blue shield and dates back to the 13th century, although it only became official in 1945; the harp, a national symbol that Ireland adopted after gaining independence from the United Kingdom in 1921, represents the country’s history, culture, and national identity
Reference: 1945, 1921National anthem(s)
title: "Amhran na bhFiann" (The Soldier's Song)
lyrics/music: Peadar KEARNEY [English], Liam O RINN [Irish]/Patrick HEENEY and Peadar KEARNEY
history: adopted 1926; the song "Ireland's Call" is often used as the anthem at athletic events if citizens of Ireland and Northern Ireland are competing as a unified team
Reference: 1926lyrics/music: Peadar KEARNEY [English], Liam O RINN [Irish]/Patrick HEENEY and Peadar KEARNEY
history: adopted 1926; the song "Ireland's Call" is often used as the anthem at athletic events if citizens of Ireland and Northern Ireland are competing as a unified team
National heritage
total World Heritage Sites: 2 (both cultural)
selected World Heritage Site locales: Brú na Bóinne - Archaeological Ensemble of the Bend of the Boyne; Sceilg Mhichíl
selected World Heritage Site locales: Brú na Bóinne - Archaeological Ensemble of the Bend of the Boyne; Sceilg Mhichíl
Government & Official Links
| Institution | Official website | X / Twitter | Verification |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ireland official website | Official website | — | Reported · source Checked September 20, 2026 |
Institutional accounts only; personal accounts of political office-holders are excluded.
Legislature & Elections
Legislature
| Name | Chamber | Seats | Electoral system |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oireachtas | — | — | — |
Economy
Economic overview
high-income, export-oriented EU economy; large multinational business sector contributes to growth and tax revenues but poses volatility risks; high living standards; strong labor market challenged by skill shortages and aging workforce
Real GDP (purchasing power parity)
Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2024: $620.544 billion (2024 est.)
Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2023: $613.056 billion (2023 est.)
Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2022: $648.943 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: data in 2021 dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2023: $613.056 billion (2023 est.)
Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2022: $648.943 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: data in 2021 dollars
Real GDP per capita
Real GDP per capita 2024: $115,300 (2024 est.)
Real GDP per capita 2023: $115,500 (2023 est.)
Real GDP per capita 2022: $124,500 (2022 est.)
note: note: data in 2021 dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021Real GDP per capita 2023: $115,500 (2023 est.)
Real GDP per capita 2022: $124,500 (2022 est.)
note: note: data in 2021 dollars
GDP - composition, by sector of origin
agriculture: 1.1% (2024 est.)
industry: 30.8% (2024 est.)
services: 61.8% (2024 est.)
note: note: figures may not total 100% due to non-allocated consumption not captured in sector-reported data
Reference: 2024industry: 30.8% (2024 est.)
services: 61.8% (2024 est.)
note: note: figures may not total 100% due to non-allocated consumption not captured in sector-reported data
GDP - composition, by end use
household consumption: 26.8% (2023 est.)
government consumption: 12.2% (2023 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 23.2% (2023 est.)
investment in inventories: 3.1% (2023 est.)
exports of goods and services: 135.1% (2023 est.)
imports of goods and services: -102.2% (2023 est.)
note: note: figures may not total 100% due to rounding or gaps in data collection
Reference: 2023government consumption: 12.2% (2023 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 23.2% (2023 est.)
investment in inventories: 3.1% (2023 est.)
exports of goods and services: 135.1% (2023 est.)
imports of goods and services: -102.2% (2023 est.)
note: note: figures may not total 100% due to rounding or gaps in data collection
Agricultural products
milk, barley, beef, wheat, potatoes, pork, oats, chicken, rapeseed, beans (2023)
note: note: top ten agricultural products based on tonnage
Reference: 2023note: note: top ten agricultural products based on tonnage
Industries
pharmaceuticals, chemicals, computer hardware and software, food products, beverages and brewing; medical devices
Industrial production growth rate
-4.9% (2024 est.)
note: note: annual % change in industrial value added based on constant local currency
Reference: 2024note: note: annual % change in industrial value added based on constant local currency
Labor force
2.857 million (2024 est.)
note: note: number of people ages 15 or older who are employed or seeking work
Reference: 2024note: note: number of people ages 15 or older who are employed or seeking work
Youth unemployment rate (ages 15-24)
total: 11.1% (2024 est.)
male: 11.2% (2024 est.)
female: 11% (2024 est.)
note: note: % of labor force ages 15-24 seeking employment
Reference: 2024male: 11.2% (2024 est.)
female: 11% (2024 est.)
note: note: % of labor force ages 15-24 seeking employment
Population below poverty line
14% (2021 est.)
note: note: % of population with income below national poverty line
Reference: 2021note: note: % of population with income below national poverty line
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income 2022: 29.9 (2022 est.)
note: note: index (0-100) of income distribution; higher values represent greater inequality
Reference: 2022note: note: index (0-100) of income distribution; higher values represent greater inequality
Average household expenditures
on food: 8.6% of household expenditures (2023 est.)
on alcohol and tobacco: 4% of household expenditures (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023on alcohol and tobacco: 4% of household expenditures (2023 est.)
Household income or consumption by percentage share
lowest 10%: 3.6% (2022 est.)
highest 10%: 24.5% (2022 est.)
note: note: % share of income accruing to lowest and highest 10% of population
Reference: 2022highest 10%: 24.5% (2022 est.)
note: note: % share of income accruing to lowest and highest 10% of population
Remittances
Remittances 2023: 0.1% of GDP (2023 est.)
Remittances 2022: 0.1% of GDP (2022 est.)
Remittances 2021: 0% of GDP (2021 est.)
note: note: personal transfers and compensation between resident and non-resident individuals/households/entities
Reference: 2023, 2022, 2021Remittances 2022: 0.1% of GDP (2022 est.)
Remittances 2021: 0% of GDP (2021 est.)
note: note: personal transfers and compensation between resident and non-resident individuals/households/entities
Budget
revenues: $118.231 billion (2022 est.)
expenditures: $108.693 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: central government revenues (excluding grants) and expenditures converted to US dollars at average official exchange rate for year indicated
Reference: 2022expenditures: $108.693 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: central government revenues (excluding grants) and expenditures converted to US dollars at average official exchange rate for year indicated
Public debt
Public debt 2022: 45.4% of GDP (2022 est.)
note: note: central government debt as a % of GDP
Reference: 2022note: note: central government debt as a % of GDP
Taxes and other revenues
16.8% (of GDP) (2022 est.)
note: note: central government tax revenue as a % of GDP
Reference: 2022note: note: central government tax revenue as a % of GDP
Current account balance
Current account balance 2023: $44.744 billion (2023 est.)
Current account balance 2022: $48.427 billion (2022 est.)
Current account balance 2021: $65.118 billion (2021 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
Reference: 2023, 2022, 2021Current account balance 2022: $48.427 billion (2022 est.)
Current account balance 2021: $65.118 billion (2021 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
Exports
Exports 2023: $761.876 billion (2023 est.)
Exports 2022: $763.233 billion (2022 est.)
Exports 2021: $722.655 billion (2021 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Reference: 2023, 2022, 2021Exports 2022: $763.233 billion (2022 est.)
Exports 2021: $722.655 billion (2021 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Exports - partners
USA 28%, Germany 11%, UK 8%, Belgium 8%, China 7% (2023)
note: note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
Reference: 2023note: note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
Exports - commodities
vaccines, packaged medicine, nitrogen compounds, integrated circuits, hormones (2023)
note: note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
Reference: 2023note: note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
Imports
Imports 2023: $580.399 billion (2023 est.)
Imports 2022: $536.882 billion (2022 est.)
Imports 2021: $500.334 billion (2021 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Reference: 2023, 2022, 2021Imports 2022: $536.882 billion (2022 est.)
Imports 2021: $500.334 billion (2021 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Imports - partners
UK 20%, USA 17%, France 10%, China 7%, Germany 7% (2023)
note: note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
Reference: 2023note: note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
Imports - commodities
aircraft, nitrogen compounds, vaccines, packaged medicine, integrated circuits (2023)
note: note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
Reference: 2023note: note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2024: $12.698 billion (2024 est.)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2023: $12.905 billion (2023 est.)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2022: $13.039 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: holdings of gold (year-end prices)/foreign exchange/special drawing rights in current dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2023: $12.905 billion (2023 est.)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2022: $13.039 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: holdings of gold (year-end prices)/foreign exchange/special drawing rights in current dollars
Exchange rates
Currency: euros (EUR) per US dollar -
Exchange rates 2024: 0.924 (2024 est.)
Exchange rates 2023: 0.925 (2023 est.)
Exchange rates 2022: 0.95 (2022 est.)
Exchange rates 2021: 0.845 (2021 est.)
Exchange rates 2020: 0.876 (2020 est.)
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021Exchange rates 2024: 0.924 (2024 est.)
Exchange rates 2023: 0.925 (2023 est.)
Exchange rates 2022: 0.95 (2022 est.)
Exchange rates 2021: 0.845 (2021 est.)
Exchange rates 2020: 0.876 (2020 est.)
Trade
Current account balance
Current account balance 2023: $44.744 billion (2023 est.)
Current account balance 2022: $48.427 billion (2022 est.)
Current account balance 2021: $65.118 billion (2021 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
Reference: 2023, 2022, 2021Current account balance 2022: $48.427 billion (2022 est.)
Current account balance 2021: $65.118 billion (2021 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
Exports
Exports 2023: $761.876 billion (2023 est.)
Exports 2022: $763.233 billion (2022 est.)
Exports 2021: $722.655 billion (2021 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Reference: 2023, 2022, 2021Exports 2022: $763.233 billion (2022 est.)
Exports 2021: $722.655 billion (2021 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Exports - partners
USA 28%, Germany 11%, UK 8%, Belgium 8%, China 7% (2023)
note: note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
Reference: 2023note: note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
Exports - commodities
vaccines, packaged medicine, nitrogen compounds, integrated circuits, hormones (2023)
note: note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
Reference: 2023note: note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
Imports
Imports 2023: $580.399 billion (2023 est.)
Imports 2022: $536.882 billion (2022 est.)
Imports 2021: $500.334 billion (2021 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Reference: 2023, 2022, 2021Imports 2022: $536.882 billion (2022 est.)
Imports 2021: $500.334 billion (2021 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Imports - partners
UK 20%, USA 17%, France 10%, China 7%, Germany 7% (2023)
note: note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
Reference: 2023note: note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
Imports - commodities
aircraft, nitrogen compounds, vaccines, packaged medicine, integrated circuits (2023)
note: note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
Reference: 2023note: note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
Energy & Resources
Electricity
installed generating capacity: 12.321 million kW (2023 est.)
consumption: 32.282 billion kWh (2023 est.)
exports: 441.615 million kWh (2023 est.)
imports: 3.89 billion kWh (2023 est.)
transmission/distribution losses: 2.489 billion kWh (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023consumption: 32.282 billion kWh (2023 est.)
exports: 441.615 million kWh (2023 est.)
imports: 3.89 billion kWh (2023 est.)
transmission/distribution losses: 2.489 billion kWh (2023 est.)
Electricity generation sources
fossil fuels: 55.7% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
solar: 1.3% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
wind: 37% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
hydroelectricity: 2.3% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
biomass and waste: 3.7% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023solar: 1.3% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
wind: 37% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
hydroelectricity: 2.3% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
biomass and waste: 3.7% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Coal
consumption: 1.341 million metric tons (2023 est.)
exports: 76,000 metric tons (2023 est.)
imports: 1.711 million metric tons (2023 est.)
proven reserves: 40 million metric tons (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023exports: 76,000 metric tons (2023 est.)
imports: 1.711 million metric tons (2023 est.)
proven reserves: 40 million metric tons (2023 est.)
Petroleum
total petroleum production: 600 bbl/day (2023 est.)
refined petroleum consumption: 159,000 bbl/day (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024, 2023refined petroleum consumption: 159,000 bbl/day (2024 est.)
Natural gas
production: 1.165 billion cubic meters (2023 est.)
consumption: 4.919 billion cubic meters (2023 est.)
imports: 3.707 billion cubic meters (2023 est.)
proven reserves: 9.911 billion cubic meters (2021 est.)
Reference: 2023, 2021consumption: 4.919 billion cubic meters (2023 est.)
imports: 3.707 billion cubic meters (2023 est.)
proven reserves: 9.911 billion cubic meters (2021 est.)
Energy consumption per capita
Total energy consumption per capita 2023: 113.837 million Btu/person (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023Infrastructure
Telephones - fixed lines
total subscriptions: 1.176 million (2023 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 23 (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 23 (2023 est.)
Health
Maternal mortality ratio
4 deaths/100,000 live births (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023Health expenditure
Health expenditure (as % of GDP): 6.1% of GDP (2022)
Health expenditure (as % of national budget): 22.3% of national budget (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022Health expenditure (as % of national budget): 22.3% of national budget (2022 est.)
Physician density
3.88 physicians/1,000 population (2023)
Reference: 2023Hospital bed density
2.9 beds/1,000 population (2020 est.)
Reference: 2020Obesity - adult prevalence rate
25.3% (2016)
Reference: 2016Tobacco use
total: 16.8% (2025 est.)
male: 19.2% (2025 est.)
female: 14.4% (2025 est.)
male: 19.2% (2025 est.)
female: 14.4% (2025 est.)
Education
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education)
total: 19 years (2022 est.)
male: 19 years (2022 est.)
female: 20 years (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022male: 19 years (2022 est.)
female: 20 years (2022 est.)
Rights, Freedoms & Society
Press & Media Freedom
V-Dem expert-coded/modelled source measures. Knelstrom does not create a press-freedom ranking or composite score.
LGBTQ+ Rights & Law
Concrete legal-status fields only; Knelstrom does not generate an LGBTQ rights score or country ranking.
Source: Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory (CC BY-SA 4.0). Community-edited legal-status summary; retrieved by Knelstrom and not legal advice.
Crime & Justice
Legal system
common law system based on the English model but substantially modified by customary law; Supreme Court reviews legislative acts
Judicial branch
highest court(s): Supreme Court of Ireland (consists of the chief justice, 9 judges, 2 ex-officio members -- the presidents of the High Court and Court of Appeal -- and organized in 3-, 5-, or 7-judge panels, depending on the importance or complexity of an issue of law)
judge selection and term of office: judges nominated by the prime minister and Cabinet and appointed by the president; chief justice serves in the position for 7 years; judges can serve until age 70
subordinate courts: High Court, Court of Appeal; circuit and district courts; criminal courts
judge selection and term of office: judges nominated by the prime minister and Cabinet and appointed by the president; chief justice serves in the position for 7 years; judges can serve until age 70
subordinate courts: High Court, Court of Appeal; circuit and district courts; criminal courts
Military & Security
Military and security forces
Irish Defense Forces (Oglaigh na h-Eireannn): Army, Air Corps, Naval Service, Reserve Defense Forces (2025)
note: note: An Garda Siochana (or Garda) is the national police force and maintains internal security under the auspices of the Department of Justice
note: note: An Garda Siochana (or Garda) is the national police force and maintains internal security under the auspices of the Department of Justice
Military expenditures
Military Expenditures 2024: 0.2% of GDP (2024 est.)
Military Expenditures 2023: 0.2% of GDP (2023 est.)
Military Expenditures 2022: 0.3% of GDP (2022 est.)
Military Expenditures 2021: 0.3% of GDP (2021 est.)
Military Expenditures 2020: 0.3% of GDP (2020 est.)
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021Military Expenditures 2023: 0.2% of GDP (2023 est.)
Military Expenditures 2022: 0.3% of GDP (2022 est.)
Military Expenditures 2021: 0.3% of GDP (2021 est.)
Military Expenditures 2020: 0.3% of GDP (2020 est.)
Military and security service personnel strengths
approximately 7,500 active-duty Defense Forces (authorized establishment of 9,500) (2025)
Military equipment inventories and acquisitions
the Irish Defense Forces have a small inventory of imported weapons systems from a variety of mostly European countries, particularly the UK (2024)
Reference: 2024Military service age and obligation
18 years of age for men and women for voluntary military service; 12-year service (5 active, 7 reserves) (2024)
note: note 1: as of 2024, women made up about 7.5% of the military's full-time personnel
note 2: the Defense Forces are open to refugees under the Refugee Act of 1996 and nationals of the European Economic Area, which include EU member states, Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway
Reference: 2024, 1996note: note 1: as of 2024, women made up about 7.5% of the military's full-time personnel
note 2: the Defense Forces are open to refugees under the Refugee Act of 1996 and nationals of the European Economic Area, which include EU member states, Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway
Military deployments
130 Golan Heights (UNDOF); 325 Lebanon (UNIFIL) (2024)
Reference: 2024Military - note
the Irish Defense Forces (IDF) are responsible for external defense, assisting civil authorities upon request, participating in multinational peacekeeping and humanitarian operations, and providing for maritime security; the IDF traces its origins back to the Irish Volunteers, a unit established in 1913 which took part in the 1916 Easter Rising and the Irish War of Independence (1919-1921)
Ireland has a long-standing policy of military neutrality; however, Ireland is a signatory of the EU’s Common Security and Defense Policy and has committed a battalion of troops to the EU’s Rapid Reaction Force; Ireland is not a member of NATO but has a relationship with it going back to 1997, when it deployed personnel in support of the NATO-led peacekeeping operation in Bosnia and Herzegovina; Ireland joined NATO’s Partnership for Peace program in 1999; it has been active in UN peacekeeping operations since the 1950s (2025)
Reference: 2025, 1999, 1997, 1921Ireland has a long-standing policy of military neutrality; however, Ireland is a signatory of the EU’s Common Security and Defense Policy and has committed a battalion of troops to the EU’s Rapid Reaction Force; Ireland is not a member of NATO but has a relationship with it going back to 1997, when it deployed personnel in support of the NATO-led peacekeeping operation in Bosnia and Herzegovina; Ireland joined NATO’s Partnership for Peace program in 1999; it has been active in UN peacekeeping operations since the 1950s (2025)
International Relations
International law organization participation
accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction with reservations; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
Diplomatic representation in the US
chief of mission: Ambassador Geraldine BYRNE NASON (since 16 September 2022)
chancery: 2234 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
telephone: [1] (202) 462-3939
FAX: [1] (202) 232-5993
email address and website: https://www.ireland.ie/en/usa/washington/
consulate(s) general: Atlanta, Austin (TX), Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, San Francisco
Reference: 2022chancery: 2234 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
telephone: [1] (202) 462-3939
FAX: [1] (202) 232-5993
email address and website: https://www.ireland.ie/en/usa/washington/
consulate(s) general: Atlanta, Austin (TX), Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, San Francisco
Diplomatic representation from the US
chief of mission: Ambassador Edward S. WALSH (since 1 July 2025)
embassy: 42 Elgin Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4
mailing address: 5290 Dublin Place, Washington DC 20521-5290
telephone: [353] (1) 668-8777
FAX: [353] (1) 688-8056
email address and website: ACSDublin@state.gov
https://ie.usembassy.gov/
embassy: 42 Elgin Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4
mailing address: 5290 Dublin Place, Washington DC 20521-5290
telephone: [353] (1) 668-8777
FAX: [353] (1) 688-8056
email address and website: ACSDublin@state.gov
https://ie.usembassy.gov/
International organization participation
ADB (nonregional member), Australia Group, BIS, CD, CE, EAPC, EBRD, ECB, EIB, EMU, ESA, EU, FAO, FATF, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC (national committees), ICCt, ICRM, IDA, IEA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, IGAD (partners), IHO, ILO, IMF, IMO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, IPU, ISO, ITSO, ITU, ITUC (NGOs), MIGA, MINURSO, MONUSCO, NEA, NSG, OAS (observer), OECD, OPCW, OSCE, Paris Club, PCA, PFP, UN, UNCTAD, UNDOF, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNIFIL, UNOCI, UNRWA, UNTSO, UPU, Wassenaar Arrangement, WCO, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO, ZC
Treaties & Organisations
| Organisation | Status | Joined |
|---|---|---|
| Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) | member | 1973-06-25 |
| European Union (EU) | member | 1973-01-01 |
| OECD (OECD) | member | — |
| United Nations (UN) | member | 1955-12-14 |
| World Trade Organization (WTO) | member | — |
International law organization participation
accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction with reservations; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
International organization participation
ADB (nonregional member), Australia Group, BIS, CD, CE, EAPC, EBRD, ECB, EIB, EMU, ESA, EU, FAO, FATF, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC (national committees), ICCt, ICRM, IDA, IEA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, IGAD (partners), IHO, ILO, IMF, IMO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, IPU, ISO, ITSO, ITU, ITUC (NGOs), MIGA, MINURSO, MONUSCO, NEA, NSG, OAS (observer), OECD, OPCW, OSCE, Paris Club, PCA, PFP, UN, UNCTAD, UNDOF, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNIFIL, UNOCI, UNRWA, UNTSO, UPU, Wassenaar Arrangement, WCO, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO, ZC
Conflict & Security
Refugees and internally displaced persons
refugees: 156,441 (2024 est.)
stateless persons: 48 (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024stateless persons: 48 (2024 est.)
Terrorist group(s)
Continuity Irish Republican Army (CIRA); Real Irish Republican Army (RIRA); Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS)
note: note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in the Terrorism reference guide
note: note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in the Terrorism reference guide
Transportation & Logistics
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix
EI
Airports
100 (2025)
Heliports
10 (2025)
Railways
total: 1,688 km (2020) 53 km electrified
Reference: 2020Merchant marine
total: 94 (2023)
by type: bulk carrier 12, general cargo 32, oil tanker 1, other 49
Reference: 2023by type: bulk carrier 12, general cargo 32, oil tanker 1, other 49
Ports
total ports: 21 (2024)
large: 1
medium: 3
small: 3
very small: 14
ports with oil terminals: 8
key ports: Cobh, Cork, Dublin, Foynes
Reference: 2024large: 1
medium: 3
small: 3
very small: 14
ports with oil terminals: 8
key ports: Cobh, Cork, Dublin, Foynes
Environment
Environmental issues
water pollution, especially of lakes, from agricultural runoff; deforestation, including problems with acid rain
International environmental agreements
party to: Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air Pollution-Persistent Organic Pollutants, Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban, Desertification, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping-London Convention, Marine Dumping-London Protocol, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 2006, Wetlands, Whaling
signed, but not ratified: Air Pollution-Heavy Metals, Air Pollution-Multi-effect Protocol, Marine Life Conservation
Reference: 2006signed, but not ratified: Air Pollution-Heavy Metals, Air Pollution-Multi-effect Protocol, Marine Life Conservation
Climate
temperate maritime; modified by North Atlantic Current; mild winters, cool summers; consistently humid; overcast about half the time
Land use
agricultural land: 60.8% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: arable land: arable land: 6.4% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent crops: permanent crops: 0% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent pasture: permanent pasture: 54.4% (2023 est.)
forest: 11.9% (2023 est.)
other: 27.3% (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023agricultural land: arable land: arable land: 6.4% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent crops: permanent crops: 0% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent pasture: permanent pasture: 54.4% (2023 est.)
forest: 11.9% (2023 est.)
other: 27.3% (2023 est.)
Urbanization
urban population: 64.5% of total population (2023)
rate of urbanization: 1.15% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Reference: 2023, 2020rate of urbanization: 1.15% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Carbon dioxide emissions
total emissions: 35.486 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
from coal and metallurgical coke: 3.029 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
from petroleum and other liquids: 22.635 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
from consumed natural gas: 9.822 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023from coal and metallurgical coke: 3.029 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
from petroleum and other liquids: 22.635 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
from consumed natural gas: 9.822 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
Particulate matter emissions
7.5 micrograms per cubic meter (2019 est.)
Reference: 2019Waste and recycling
municipal solid waste generated annually: 2.911 million tons (2024 est.)
percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 42.4% (2022 est.)
Reference: 2024, 2022percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 42.4% (2022 est.)
Total water withdrawal
municipal: 1.106 billion cubic meters (2022 est.)
industrial: 531.82 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
agricultural: 39.63 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022industrial: 531.82 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
agricultural: 39.63 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
Total renewable water resources
52 billion cubic meters (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022Geoparks
total global geoparks and regional networks: 3
global geoparks and regional networks: Burren & Cliffs of Moher; Copper Coast; Marble Arch Caves (includes United Kingdom) (2023)
Reference: 2023global geoparks and regional networks: Burren & Cliffs of Moher; Copper Coast; Marble Arch Caves (includes United Kingdom) (2023)
Communications & Media
Telephones - fixed lines
total subscriptions: 1.176 million (2023 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 23 (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 23 (2023 est.)
Broadcast media
publicly owned broadcaster Radio Telefis Eireann (RTE) operates 4 TV stations; commercial TV stations are available; about 75% of households use multi-channel satellite and TV services that provide access to a wide range of stations; RTE operates 4 national radio stations and has launched digital audio broadcasts on several; a number of commercial broadcast stations operate at the national, regional, and local levels (2019)
Reference: 2019Internet country code
.ie
Historical Trends
Population
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View Population data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 4,762,722 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2017 | 4,827,445 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2018 | 4,898,022 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2019 | 4,976,456 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2020 | 5,039,747 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2021 | 5,110,585 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2022 | 5,212,836 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2023 | 5,311,538 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2024 | 5,395,790 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2025 | 5,484,367 | world_bank_wdi |
GDP (current US$)
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View GDP (current US$) data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | $305,431,252,709 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2017 | $348,355,212,569 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2018 | $395,780,319,817 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2019 | $407,211,793,801 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2020 | $436,009,027,819 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2021 | $530,394,123,830 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2022 | $548,341,794,599 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2023 | $567,372,737,459 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2024 | $609,157,459,747 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2025 | $721,701,359,046 | world_bank_wdi |
International migrant stock (immigrants)
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View International migrant stock (immigrants) data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 951,686 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2024 | 1,216,237 | world_bank_wdi |
International emigrant stock
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View International emigrant stock data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 1990 | 927,001 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 1995 | 905,239 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2000 | 809,826 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2005 | 764,001 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2010 | 765,462 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2015 | 762,324 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2020 | 729,636 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2024 | 714,405 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
Net migration
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View Net migration data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 18,967 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2017 | 28,883 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2018 | 33,387 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2019 | 29,663 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2020 | 15,746 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2021 | 27,419 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2022 | 93,535 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2023 | 43,873 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2024 | 39,059 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2025 | 35,417 | world_bank_wdi |
Sources & Methodology
Current statistical observations include their reference period and provenance. Reference fields from approved source datasets are attributed below. Missing information is left unknown rather than inferred.
| Indicator | Value | Period | Source | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 5,484,367 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| UN Population Division population estimate | 5,356,950 | 2026 | UN Population Division Data Portal | Estimated |
| Wikidata population (fallback) | 5,149,139 | 2022 | Wikidata | Reported |
| International migrant stock (immigrants) | 1,216,237 | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| International migrant stock | 23.1% | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| International emigrant stock | 714,405 | 2024 | UN DESA International Migrant Stock 2024 | Estimated |
| Net migration | 35,417 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Refugees from this country | 69 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Asylum seekers from this country | 330 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Freedom of expression & alternative information index | 0.970 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Government censorship effort — media | 3.037 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Harassment of journalists | 2.374 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Print/broadcast media critical of government | 2.924 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Range of perspectives in major media | 2.558 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Media bias | 2.592 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Media self-censorship | 1.772 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Same-sex sexual activity | Yes Male legal since 1993; Female always legal; + UN decl. sign. | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Recognition of same-sex relationships | Yes Civil partnerships from 2011 to 2015 (existing partnerships are still recognised) | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Same-sex marriage | Yes Legal since 2015 after a constitutional referendum | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Same-sex adoption | Yes Legal since 2017 | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Open military service | Yes Includes transgender people | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Sexual-orientation anti-discrimination law | Yes Bans all anti-gay discrimination | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Gender identity / expression law | Yes Under the Gender Recognition Act 2015, by self-declaration. | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| GDP (current US$) | $721,701,359,046 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| GDP per capita (current US$) | $131,592 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| GDP growth | 12.3% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Inflation, consumer prices | 2.2% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Unemployment | 4.6% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Income level | High income | current | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Life expectancy at birth | 83.0 years | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Fertility rate | 1.5 | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Urban population | 64.6% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Individuals using the Internet | 97.2% | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Exports of goods and services | 140.1% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Imports of goods and services | 99.9% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Trade | 240.0% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Secondary school enrolment, gross | 130.6% | 2022 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Government education expenditure | 2.9% | 2021 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Access to electricity | 100.0% | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Electric power consumption | 6,298 kWh/person | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Renewable energy consumption | 12.7% | 2021 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Current health expenditure | 6.9% | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Infant mortality rate | 3.4 per 1,000 | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Forest area | 11.5% | 2023 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Mobile cellular subscriptions | 112.6 per 100 | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Fixed broadband subscriptions | 32.3 per 100 | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Secure Internet servers | 121,468 per million | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Latitude | 53.3441° | current | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Longitude | -6.2675° | current | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Latitude (Wikidata) | 53.0000° | current | Wikidata | Reported |
| Longitude (Wikidata) | -8.0000° | current | Wikidata | Reported |
| Time zone | Greenwich Mean Time, UTC±00:00 | current | Wikidata | Reported |
| Form of government | republic, unitary state | current | Wikidata | Reported |
Data attribution
Credits below are generated from sources actually used by this country profile. Source-specific terms take precedence.
- CIA World Factbook, final 2025 country profile (structured via factbook.json). Accessed September 20, 2026. U.S. Government public-domain data; retained as a reference source where a newer approved field is not available. Source · Terms/licence
- Source: Eurostat (dataset/datacode: demo_pjan) Accessed September 19, 2026. Knelstrom presentation/formatting may differ from the source. Source · Terms/licence
- United Nations, Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Population Division, International Migrant Stock 2024; data access/processing via Our World in Data. Accessed September 20, 2026. Underlying UN dataset used under CC BY 3.0 IGO. Source · Terms/licence
- United Nations, Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Population Division, World Population Prospects (WPP indicator 49) Accessed September 19, 2026. Used under CC BY 3.0 IGO; current-year WPP population values are presented as estimates/projections where applicable. Source · Terms/licence
- Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem), Country-Year Dataset v16 (variables: v2mebias, v2mecenefm, v2mecrit, v2meharjrn, v2merange, v2meslfcen, v2x_freexp_altinf) Accessed September 20, 2026. Used under CC BY-SA 4.0; V-Dem measures are expert-coded/modelled and no V-Dem endorsement is implied. Source · Terms/licence
- Wikidata structured data (CC0). Accessed September 20, 2026. Attribution is provided by Knelstrom for provenance although CC0 does not require it. Source · Terms/licence
- Wikipedia, “LGBTQ rights by country or territory” (source revision/data fields: Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Gender identity / expression law, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Open military service, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Recognition of same-sex relationships, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Same-sex adoption, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Same-sex marriage, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Same-sex sexual activity, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Sexual-orientation anti-discrimination law) Accessed September 20, 2026. Used under CC BY-SA 4.0. Knelstrom changes formatting and presents the imported material as a community-edited legal-status summary, not legal advice or a Knelstrom rights score. Source · Terms/licence
- World Bank, World Development Indicators (series: AG.LND.FRST.ZS, country_metadata, EG.ELC.ACCS.ZS, EG.FEC.RNEW.ZS, EG.USE.ELEC.KH.PC, FP.CPI.TOTL.ZG, IT.CEL.SETS.P2, IT.NET.BBND.P2, IT.NET.SECR.P6, IT.NET.USER.ZS, NE.EXP.GNFS.ZS, NE.IMP.GNFS.ZS, NE.TRD.GNFS.ZS, NY.GDP.MKTP.CD, NY.GDP.MKTP.KD.ZG, NY.GDP.PCAP.CD, SE.SEC.ENRR, SE.XPD.TOTL.GD.ZS, SH.XPD.CHEX.GD.ZS, SL.UEM.TOTL.ZS, SM.POP.ASYS.EO, SM.POP.NETM, SM.POP.RHCR.EO, SM.POP.TOTL, SM.POP.TOTL.ZS, SP.DYN.IMRT.IN, SP.DYN.LE00.IN, SP.DYN.TFRT.IN, SP.POP.TOTL, SP.URB.TOTL.IN.ZS) Accessed September 20, 2026. Data used under CC BY 4.0; Knelstrom presentation/formatting may differ from the source. Source · Terms/licence
Knelstrom does not imply endorsement by any listed data provider.
Last automated statistical refresh: 2026-09-20 02:05:16