Country Profile: Clipperton Island
Clipperton Island is a small, uninhabited atoll located in the North Pacific Ocean, approximately 1,120 km southwest of Mexico. This isolated territory has a total area of only 6 square kilometers and is administered by France as a possession. Due to its lack of permanent population and economic activity, the island primarily serves as a natural environment with some limited resources, such as fish. The atoll's governance is directly overseen by the French government, ensuring that French law applies.
Geography
Clipperton Island is situated in the North Pacific Ocean and comprises a coral atoll with an area of 6 square kilometers. The island has a coastline of 11.1 kilometers and is entirely surrounded by water. It experiences a tropical climate with a wet season from May to October, during which it may be subject to tropical storms and hurricanes.
- Location: 1,120 km southwest of Mexico
- Climate: Tropical; average temperatures range from 20-32 degrees Celsius
- Elevation: Highest point at Rocher Clipperton is 29 meters above sea level
- Coastline: Total of 11.1 km
- Natural Hazards: Vulnerable to tropical storms and hurricanes
People and Society
As of the latest information, Clipperton Island is uninhabited, which means there is no permanent population residing on the island. The lack of human settlement contributes to the island's undisturbed natural environment.
- Population: Uninhabited
Government
Clipperton Island is a possession of France, governed directly by the French Minister of Overseas France. The laws of France are applicable on the island, and the French flag is used as its national flag. The island's governance reflects its status as a remote territory with no local administration.
- Dependency Status: Possession of France
- Legal System: French laws apply
- Flag: The flag of France is used
Military and Security
The defense of Clipperton Island is the responsibility of France, which ensures that the island is protected under French military jurisdiction. This arrangement reflects its strategic status as a remote territory in the Pacific.
- Defense Responsibility: France
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Area | 6 sq km | Total land area |
| Population | Uninhabited | No permanent residents |
| Elevation | 29 m | Highest point above sea level |
| Coastline | 11.1 km | Length of the coastline |
| Climate | Tropical | Average temperatures 20-32°C |
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