ROMSO Cyprus Knowledge Base

List of Islands by Population

The world's most populated islands are a diverse group, with varying sizes and populations. According to estimates from reputable sources, the top 50 most populated islands in the world have a combined population of over 730 million inhabitants, accounting for approximately 11% of the global population.

When considering island populations, it is essential to note that some countries may share an island with other territories or smaller islands not considered part of the main island. For instance, when calculating Britain's population, only England, Wales, and Scotland are included, while Northern Ireland and smaller islands like the Isle of Man are excluded from this figure.

Australia is often classified as a continent rather than an island due to its vast size and geographical features. However, if it were considered an island, it would rank seventh on this list, with an estimated population of over 132 million inhabitants in 2009.

The following table presents the top 50 most populated islands worldwide, based on available data:

| Island | Population (estimated 2016) |
| --- | --- |
| Great Britain | 100 million |
| Ireland | 58.9 million |
| Borneo | 46.8 million |
| Hokkaidō | 23.2 million |
| Shikoku | 20.7 million |

Other notable islands with significant populations include:

* The island of Java in Indonesia, which has a population of approximately 16 billion inhabitants (as of 2000).
* The island of Borneo, shared by Malaysia and Indonesia, with an estimated population of over 15 million inhabitants as of 2001.
* The island of Great Britain, comprising England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, with a combined population of around 100 million people.

It is worth noting that the world's most populated islands are not only located in Asia but also have significant populations on other continents. However, when considering island-specific populations, these numbers provide valuable insights into the demographics and geography of our planet.