Country Profile: Vanuatu

Vanuatu is a republic consisting of an archipelago located in the South Pacific Ocean, characterized by its mountainous terrain and rich natural resources. The country has a population of approximately 318,000 people, predominantly of Melanesian descent, with the economy heavily reliant on agriculture and tourism. Governed as a parliamentary republic, Vanuatu has experienced significant political fluctuations since gaining independence in 1980, often resulting in coalition governments. Its unique cultural tapestry and biodiversity contribute to its dynamic yet vulnerable environment.

Geography

Vanuatu is situated in Oceania, consisting of more than 80 islands, of which about 65 are inhabited. The islands are mostly mountainous, originating from volcanic activity, with a tropical climate that is moderated by southeast trade winds. Natural hazards include tropical cyclones, volcanic eruptions, and tsunamis.

• 12,189 sq km – Total land area
• 2,528 km – Coastline length
• 1,877 m – Highest point (Mount Tabwemasana)
• 74.8% – Percentage of land covered by forests (2023 est.)
• 15.3% – Percentage of land used for agriculture (2023 est.)

People and Society

Vanuatu has a diverse population of around 318,000, primarily made up of the Ni-Vanuatu ethnic group. The country is home to over 100 indigenous languages, with Bislama, English, and French as official languages. The society is predominantly Christian, with Protestants being the largest group.

• 88% – Literacy rate (2023 est.)
• 75.7 years – Life expectancy at birth (2024 est.)
• 31.1% – Percentage of the population aged 0-14 years
• 20.36 births/1,000 population – Birth rate (2025 est.)
• 4.02 deaths/1,000 population – Death rate (2025 est.)

Economy

Vanuatu has a lower-middle-income economy primarily dependent on subsistence agriculture and tourism. The economy is recovering from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and natural disasters, showing signs of inflation amid external challenges.

• $1.161 billion – GDP (official exchange rate, 2024 est.)
• $3,200 – GDP per capita (2024 est.)
• 5.1% – Unemployment rate (2024 est.)
• 24.9% – Contribution of agriculture to GDP (2022 est.)
• 11.2% – Contribution of hydroelectric power to installed energy capacity (2023 est.)

Government

Vanuatu operates as a parliamentary republic divided into six provinces. The legal framework is a mixed system influenced by English common law and French law. The country has experienced political volatility with numerous changes in leadership through no-confidence motions.

• Republic of Vanuatu – Official name
• Port-Vila – Capital city
• President: Nikenike VUROBARAVU (since 2022)
• Prime Minister: Jotham NAPAT (expected from February 2025)
• 52 – Total seats in Parliament, all directly elected

Military and Security

Vanuatu has no regular military forces but maintains a police force that includes paramilitary units for internal and maritime security. The Vanuatu Police Force has received international support for training and operational capabilities.

• Vanuatu Police Force (VPF) – National law enforcement agency
• No regular military – Security framework
• "Shiprider" agreement – Collaborates with the US Coast Guard and Navy

Energy

Electricity access in Vanuatu is relatively low, with a significant portion of the rural population lacking connection. The energy sector relies heavily on fossil fuels, though there are efforts to incorporate renewable sources.

• 70% – Electrification rate (total population, 2022 est.)
• 74.9% – Fossil fuel dependency for electricity generation (2023 est.)
• 39,000 kW – Installed generating capacity (2023 est.)
• 2,000 bbl/day – Refined petroleum consumption (2023 est.)

Environment

Vanuatu faces several environmental challenges, including water pollution, deforestation, and inadequate sanitation. The country is a party to multiple international environmental agreements, indicating its commitment to addressing these issues.

• 10 billion cubic meters – Total renewable water resources (2022 est.)
• 292,000 metric tonnes – CO2 emissions (2023 est.)
• 52.9% – Municipal waste recycling rate (2022 est.)

Transportation

Vanuatu's transportation network includes an extensive maritime sector and a growing number of air travel facilities. The country has several small airports and a merchant marine fleet.

• 31 – Total airports (2025)
• 338 – Merchant marine vessels (2023)
• 3 – Total ports (2024)

Communications

Vanuatu's communication infrastructure includes fixed and mobile telephone services, as well as internet access. The state-run media plays a key role in broadcasting information to the populace.

• 256,000 – Mobile cellular subscriptions (2022 est.)
• 46% – Internet users as a percentage of the population (2023 est.)
• 3,000 – Fixed line telephone subscriptions (2022 est.)

Key Metrics

Metric	Value	Note
Population	318,007 (2024 est.)
Area	12,189 sq km
GDP (official exchange rate)	$1.161 billion (2024 est.)
Energy consumption	12.934 million Btu/person (2023 est.)
Birth rate	20.36 births/1,000 population (2025 est.)
Unemployment rate	5.1% (2024 est.)
Life expectancy at birth	75.7 years (2024 est.)
Literacy rate	88% (2023 est.)
Total fertility rate	2.46 children born/woman (2025 est.)
Inflation rate	11.2% (2023 est.)