Germany vs Ireland development indicators, 2024

Demography and Health

Germany has a crude birth rate of 8.3 per 1,000 people, while Ireland's is higher at 10.3 per 1,000 people, ranking 13th globally compared to Germany's 54th position. In terms of death rate, Germany exhibits a higher figure of 12.3 per 1,000 compared to Ireland's 6.6, ranking them 27th and 80th respectively. Life expectancy at birth indicates a slight advantage for Ireland at 82.9 years versus Germany's 80.5 years. Both countries show similar mortality rates for children under five, with Germany at 3.7 and Ireland at 3.8 per 1,000 live births. Additionally, both nations have a prevalence of undernourishment at 2.5% of the population, indicating nutrition stability. In 2024, Germany’s total population is recorded at 83.5 million, significantly higher than Ireland's 5.4 million. Overall, Ireland presents a healthier demographic outlook based on mortality rates and life expectancy metrics.

Economy

Germany's GDP per capita stands at $55,800, which is substantially lower than Ireland's $107,316, indicating a wealthier populace in the latter. When using purchasing power parity (PPP) for comparisons, Germany’s GDP per capita is $72,300 compared to Ireland’s impressive $131,175, again reflecting a superior standard of living in Ireland. Moreover, Ireland's economy benefits from an incredibly high ratio of exports of goods and services to GDP at 148%, in stark contrast to Germany's 42.1%, reflecting a more export-driven economy. The import figures exhibit Germany at 38.2% of GDP versus Ireland’s 105%, further showcasing the latter's heavy reliance on international trade and its resultant economic structure. The consumer price inflation is relatively low in both countries, with Germany at 2.3% and Ireland slightly lower at 2.1%, indicating stable economic environments.

Trade and Investment

In terms of trade, Germany leads with $255.7 billion in high-technology exports, standing first in global rankings, while Ireland ranks 11th with $91.4 billion. This suggests Germany's strong industrial base and innovation capabilities. The import/export ratios also illustrate different economic structures; Germany's lower export figure shows a balanced economy, whereas Ireland's high import ratio indicates dependence on foreign goods and services. Despite these differences, both nations are ranked favorably in terms of logistics performance, with Germany at the top (4.3) and Ireland trailing at 3.5, but still demonstrating effective trade and transport capabilities.

Governance and Institutions

In governance, particularly in aspects of corruption control and government effectiveness, Germany holds a slight edge, ranking 19th with a score of 1.7 in control of corruption, compared to Ireland’s 21st rank at 1.6. Conversely, Ireland demonstrates superior government effectiveness with a score of 1.6 and a 14th ranking, compared to Germany’s lower score of 1.2 and a 29th ranking. Political stability and the absence of violence show Ireland as the more stable nation, with a ranking of 12 compared to Germany’s 52nd. The quality of regulation in Germany garners a ranking of 23, while Ireland ranks better at 11, signaling a more favorable regulatory environment in the latter.

Infrastructure and Technology

Germany demonstrates superior infrastructure capabilities with the highest logistics performance index score of 4.3, underscoring its advanced trade and transport network. In terms of innovation, it leads in patent applications with 39,822 compared to Ireland's 75, positioning itself as a global leader in research and development. Moreover, Germany invests more in research and development as a percentage of GDP (3.1%) compared to Ireland (1%), amplifying its position as an innovation powerhouse with a highly skilled workforce. The higher investment in infrastructure and technology in Germany correlates with its significant industrial development.

Environment and Sustainability

On sustainability parameters, Germany consumes 17.6% of its total energy from renewable sources, ranking 17th globally, while Ireland lags behind with only 12.7%, ranked 24th. Germany also faces more intense water stress, withdrawing 35.4% of its available freshwater resources, compared to Ireland's 22.2%. However, Germany's per capita greenhouse gas emissions are lower at 8.1 tons compared to Ireland's 10.9 tons, possibly due to its strong emphasis on renewable energy adoption. Both nations reflect good practices regarding undernourishment and maintain a sustainable population health, yet Germany's advanced measures in renewable energy suggest a stronger commitment to environmental sustainability overall.