Republic of Ireland
The Republic of Ireland is a sovereign state in Northwestern Europe, occupying 26 of the 32 counties of the island of Ireland. Its capital and largest city is Dublin, and it is a unitary parliamentary republic with an elected president as head of state and a Taoiseach as head of government.
- Capital
- Dublin
- Population
- about 5.4 million
- Official Name
- Ireland (Éire)
- Government
- Unitary parliamentary republic
- Head of State
- President (Uachtarán)
- Head of Government
- Taoiseach (prime minister)
Reader's Guide
Ireland is a member of the EU, a founding member of the Council of Europe and the OECD, and maintains a policy of military neutrality, not joining NATO but participating in Partnership for Peace and PESCO. The state's name and constitutional status have been subjects of historical and political nuance, particularly regarding its relationship with Northern Ireland.
Did You Know?
- The name 'Ireland' derives from Old Irish Ériu, meaning 'fertile soil'.
- The Irish government followed a policy of military neutrality since before World War II.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Republic of Ireland?
The Republic of Ireland (officially Éire) is a sovereign nation in Northwestern Europe that occupies 26 of the island of Ireland's 32 counties. It is a unitary parliamentary republic with Dublin as its capital and largest city, home to roughly 5.4 million people.
What is Republic of Ireland's government structure?
Ireland operates as a unitary parliamentary republic where an elected President (Uachtarán) serves as head of state and a Taoiseach, or prime minister, leads the government. Legislative power rests in a single parliament divided into the Dáil and Seanad chambers.
Why is Republic of Ireland important?
As a sovereign European nation with a distinct legal and political identity, Ireland plays a notable role in the EU and international diplomacy. Its economy, cultural heritage, and position as a bridge between the British Isles and continental Europe give it outsized influence relative to its size.
What is Republic of Ireland's official name and how does it differ from the island?
The official name of the state is simply Ireland (Éire), which can be confused with the geographic island of Ireland as a whole. The state covers only 26 counties, while the remaining six counties in the northeast form part of the United Kingdom.
More in Countries And Territories 1-24
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