**Cyprus Boasts Higher Percentage of Firefighters Compared to EU Average**
Cyprus has emerged as one of the leading countries in Europe in terms of the percentage of firefighters within its workforce, according to recent data released by Eurostat. In 2025, the island nation recorded 1,200 professional firefighters, which accounts for 0.24 percent of its total employment. This figure positions Cyprus as having the eighth highest percentage of firefighters among the 22 EU countries for which data is available.
In contrast, the overall percentage of professional firefighters across the European Union stands at 0.18 percent of total employment, with a total of 372,400 firefighters employed throughout the bloc. This indicates that Cyprus not only exceeds the EU average but also demonstrates a significant commitment to fire safety and emergency response through its workforce.
The data also highlights a trend in the age demographics of firefighters in Cyprus. A substantial majority, approximately 74.7 percent, of all employed firefighters in the country are under the age of 50. This is notably higher than the overall employment demographic in Cyprus, where only 64.4 percent of the total workforce falls within the same age bracket. This reliance on younger staff may suggest a proactive approach to recruitment within fire services, aiming to ensure a dynamic and physically capable workforce.
When comparing Cyprus to other EU nations, Greece leads with the highest percentage of firefighters at 0.47 percent of its total employment, followed by Croatia at 0.43 percent and Portugal at 0.33 percent. These figures indicate a regional emphasis on fire safety and emergency preparedness, with these countries investing significantly in their firefighting capabilities.
On the other end of the spectrum, countries such as the Netherlands, Austria, and Sweden report the lowest percentages of professional firefighters, with figures of 0.05 percent, 0.07 percent, and 0.10 percent respectively. This disparity may reflect differing national policies, funding priorities, and approaches to fire safety across Europe.
The findings from Eurostat underscore the importance of fire services in Cyprus, particularly in a region prone to wildfires and other emergencies. The government’s investment in firefighting personnel not only enhances public safety but also contributes to the overall resilience of the community in the face of natural disasters.
As Cyprus continues to prioritize its fire service capabilities, the data serves as a benchmark for ongoing efforts to maintain and improve fire safety standards in the country. With a higher percentage of firefighters than the EU average, Cyprus is well-positioned to address the challenges posed by fire-related emergencies, ensuring the safety and security of its residents.