Country Profile: Gibraltar
Gibraltar is a strategically located British overseas territory at the southern tip of Spain, bordering the Mediterranean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean. With a population of approximately 29,733 residents, it is a densely populated area characterized by a diverse society that primarily identifies as Gibraltarian. The economy relies heavily on tourism, banking, finance, and shipping, facing challenges and opportunities post-Brexit. Governed as a parliamentary democracy, Gibraltar enjoys a degree of autonomy while remaining under British sovereignty, particularly in defense and foreign relations.
Geography
Gibraltar is situated in southwestern Europe, at the entrance of the Strait of Gibraltar, which connects the Mediterranean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean. The territory covers an area of 7 square kilometers, with a narrow coastal lowland that borders the prominent Rock of Gibraltar, the highest point reaching 426 meters.
- 12 km of coastline.
- 1.2 km long land border with Spain.
- Predominantly Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm summers.
- All potable water is derived from desalination due to limited natural freshwater resources.
People and Society
Gibraltar's population is estimated at 29,733 people as of 2025, with a gender distribution of approximately 14,923 males and 14,810 females. The society is predominantly Gibraltarian (79%), with ethnic diversity including British, Spanish, Moroccan, and other EU nationals. English is the official language, with Spanish also widely spoken.
- 100% urban population as of 2023.
- Life expectancy stands at 80.9 years as of 2024.
- Birth rate is 13.55 births per 1,000 population in 2025.
- The median age is 37.1 years.
Economy
Gibraltar has a high-income economy that is heavily influenced by its status as an overseas territory of the UK. The economy has undergone significant disruptions due to Brexit, impacting key sectors such as financial services and tourism. The local government manages an independent taxation authority, contributing to its economic resilience.
- $2.044 billion GDP (2014 est.).
- Primary industries include tourism, banking, and ship repairing.
- Major export partners include the Netherlands (38%) and France (26%) as of 2023.
- Major imported commodities include refined and crude petroleum.
Government
Gibraltar operates as a parliamentary democracy and a self-governing overseas territory of the UK. The Chief Minister serves as the head of government, while the Governor represents the British monarch. The local parliament consists of 18 members, with the latest elections held on October 10, 2023.
- The legal system is based on UK law.
- Suffrage is granted to residents aged 18 and over.
- The current Chief Minister is Fabian Picardo, in office since December 2011.
Military and Security
The defense of Gibraltar is the responsibility of the United Kingdom, primarily managed through the Royal Gibraltar Regiment. The military presence underlines Gibraltar's strategic importance in the region.
- Military forces are composed of the Royal Gibraltar Regiment (2025).
Energy
Gibraltar's energy needs are met entirely through fossil fuels, with electricity access for the entire population. The territory's installed electricity generation capacity is 50,000 kW, with significant consumption attributed primarily to fossil fuels.
- 100% of the population has access to electricity as of 2022.
- Electricity consumption is 213.744 million kWh (2023).
- Refined petroleum consumption amounts to 91,000 bbl/day (2023).
Environment
Gibraltar faces environmental challenges, particularly due to limited natural freshwater resources. The urban population is completely reliant on desalination for drinking water.
- Total carbon dioxide emissions were 15.608 million metric tonnes in 2023.
- 100% of land is designated for urban use, with no agricultural or forest land.
Transportation
The territory has a well-established transportation system that includes a single airport and a merchant marine fleet. The primary port, Europa Point, facilitates maritime activities and trade.
- 1 airport as of 2025.
- The merchant marine consists of 129 vessels (2023).
- Total port capacity is 1, catering primarily to oil terminals.
Communications
Gibraltar enjoys comprehensive communication services, with a high rate of internet usage and mobile subscriptions. The Gibraltar Broadcasting Corporation provides television and radio services, contributing to a diverse media landscape.
- 94% internet penetration rate as of 2016.
- 36,700 mobile cellular subscriptions (2022).
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 29,733 (2025 est.) | |
| Area | 7 sq km | |
| GDP | $2.044 billion | 2014 estimate |
| Electricity access | 100% | 2022 estimate |
| Birth rate | 13.55 births/1,000 | 2025 estimate |
| Life expectancy | 80.9 years | 2024 estimate |
| Urbanization | 100% | 2023 estimate |
| Military forces | Royal Gibraltar Reg. | 2025 |
| Total emissions | 15.608 million mt CO2 | 2023 estimate |
| Installed capacity | 50,000 kW | 2023 estimate |
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