Country Profile: Bermuda
Bermuda, the oldest and most populous British Overseas Territory, was first settled in 1609 by English colonists. It is located in the North Atlantic Ocean, east of South Carolina, and has developed a robust economy primarily driven by international business and tourism. With a population of approximately 72,800, Bermuda boasts a high standard of living and a unique political structure characterized by limited self-governance under a parliamentary democracy.
Geography
Bermuda consists of over 170 islands and islets with a total area of 54 square kilometers, featuring a subtropical climate with mild winters and hurricanes from June to November. The terrain is predominantly low hills interspersed with fertile depressions, with its highest point being Town Hill at 79 meters.
- 54 sq km total area.
- 103 km of coastline.
- 200 nm territorial sea and exclusive economic zone.
- 14.4% forest coverage (2023).
- 5.6% of land used for agriculture.
People and Society
The population of Bermuda is around 72,800, with a diverse ethnic makeup largely consisting of individuals of African descent (52%) and White (31%). The official language is English, while the predominant religion is Protestant. The median age of the population is 43.9 years, and the country has a high life expectancy of 82.5 years.
- 100% urban population (2023).
- 16.4% of the population is aged 0-14 years (2024).
- 22.7% are aged 65 years and over (2024).
- 10.82 births/1,000 population (2025).
- 64.1 total dependency ratio (2024).
- 82.5 years life expectancy at birth (2024).
Economy
Bermuda's economy is small but prosperous, heavily reliant on tourism, construction, and international business services. As an offshore financial center, it attracts significant foreign investment and has high GDP per capita, forecasted at $105,300 in 2024. The economy has shown resilience, with a projected growth rate of 2.1% in 2024.
- $6.808 billion GDP (PPP) expected in 2024.
- 4.6% industry sector contribution (2023).
- 56.3% of GDP from exports of goods and services (2024).
- 22.3% of GDP from remittances (2022).
- 91.5% services sector contribution (2023).
Government
Bermuda operates as an overseas territory of the United Kingdom, with a parliamentary democracy under a constitutional monarchy. The capital is Hamilton. The government consists of an executive branch led by a Premier, a bicameral Parliament, and a judiciary based on English common law.
- King Charles III is the chief of state (since 2022).
- David Burt has served as Premier since 2017.
- 36 members in the House of Assembly and 11 in the Senate.
- The next parliamentary election is expected in 2025.
Military and Security
Bermuda maintains a small military force known as the Royal Bermuda Regiment, which includes around 350 personnel. The UK's responsibility includes defense, while the Regiment focuses on maritime security, disaster assistance, and maintaining public order.
- 350 troops in the Royal Bermuda Regiment (2025).
- The Regiment includes a Coast Guard component.
- Military service is voluntary for Commonwealth citizens aged 18-45.
Energy
Bermuda has achieved full electrification for its population, relying primarily on fossil fuels for electricity generation. The country produces 99% of its energy from fossil sources, with consumption rates indicating a need for diversification.
- 172,000 kW of installed generating capacity (2023).
- 590.38 million kWh of electricity consumed (2023).
- 100% access to electricity (2022).
Environment
Challenges surrounding the environment include air pollution from vehicles and water management issues. The lush landscape features a significant portion of forest land and grapples with the reality of overfishing and waste disposal concerns.
- 577,000 metric tons of CO2 emissions (2023).
- 14.4% of land is forested (2023).
- 2% of municipal solid waste recycled (2012).
Transportation
Bermuda has limited transportation options, featuring a single international airport and a small merchant marine fleet. The country's transportation infrastructure ensures connectivity despite the geographical challenges posed by its island status.
- 1 airport serving the island.
- 122 vessels in the merchant marine (2023).
- 4 main ports including Hamilton and St. George.
Communications
Bermuda enjoys robust communication infrastructure, with a high percentage of mobile and internet penetration among its population. The country hosts multiple television and radio stations, indicating a vibrant media landscape.
- 68,164 mobile subscriptions (2022).
- 98% of the population uses the internet (2017).
- 25,000 fixed-line subscriptions (2021).
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 72,800 | 2024 estimate |
| Area | 54 sq km | |
| GDP (PPP) | $6.808 billion | 2024 estimate |
| GDP per capita | $105,300 | 2024 estimate |
| Life expectancy | 82.5 years | 2024 estimate |
| Birth rate | 10.82 births/1,000 | 2025 estimate |
| Unemployment rate | N/A | Not specified in the provided data |
| Electricity access | 100% | 2022 estimate |
| Urban population | 100% | 2023 estimate |
| Co2 emissions | 577,000 metric tons | 2023 estimate |
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