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Tuvalu is a small, upper middle-income island nation located in the South Pacific Ocean, composed of nine coral atolls. With a population of approximately 11,733, it is one of the most remote countries in the world, primarily relying on subsistence agriculture and fishing for its economy. Governed as a parliamentary democracy under a constitutional monarchy, Tuvalu strives to maintain its cultural heritage while facing significant environmental challenges, including rising sea levels and limited natural resources.
Tuvalu is situated halfway between Hawaii and Australia, comprising nine low-lying coral atolls with a total land area of just 26 square kilometers. The climate is tropical and moderated by trade winds, with a coastline measuring 24 kilometers. The elevation ranges from sea level to a maximum of five meters above sea level, making it particularly vulnerable to environmental changes.
Tuvalu has a population of 11,733, with the majority residing on the atoll of Funafuti. The official languages are Tuvaluan and English, and the predominant religion is Protestantism, which accounts for 92.7% of the population. The country's median age is 27.8 years, and its literacy rate stands at an impressive 100%.
Tuvalu has an economy characterized by its reliance on subsistence agriculture, fishing, and significant international aid. The currency is pegged to the Australian dollar, and the nation is a major recipient of foreign assistance. The GDP (PPP) for 2023 is estimated at $57.055 million, with a forecasted growth rate of 3.9%.
Tuvalu operates as a parliamentary democracy under a constitutional monarchy, with its capital at Funafuti. The government structure includes a unicameral legislature known as Parliament, which comprises 16 members elected by the populace. The country achieved independence from the UK on 1 October 1978 and maintains strong diplomatic ties with Australia and New Zealand.
Tuvalu does not maintain regular military forces but has a police force responsible for local security. Under the Falepili Union treaty with Australia, Tuvalu has provisions for mutual assistance in times of natural disasters or external threats.
Electricity access is universal in Tuvalu, with an electrification rate of 100%. The government aims to ensure that both urban and rural areas benefit equally from this access, reflecting a commitment to sustainable energy practices.
Tuvalu faces significant environmental challenges, including limited freshwater resources, beach erosion, and the risk of rising sea levels affecting its atolls. The government is active in international climate agreements, emphasizing its commitment to combating climate change.
Tuvalu has limited transportation infrastructure, featuring a single airport and one major port located at Funafuti Atoll. The country’s maritime transport includes a merchant fleet that supports goods movement within its territorial waters.
The communications infrastructure in Tuvalu includes a modest number of fixed and mobile telephone subscriptions, with a high internet user penetration rate. Broadcasting services are limited, with reliance on state-owned radio.
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 11,733 | Estimated for 2024 |
| Area | 26 sq km | Total land area |
| GDP | $57.055 million | Real GDP (PPP) for 2023 |
| Energy Consumption | 100% | Electrification rate (total population, 2022) |
| Birth Rate | 22 births/1,000 | Estimated for 2024 |
| Life Expectancy | 69 years | Estimated for 2024 |
| Literacy Rate | 100% | Total population (2022) |
| Unemployment Rate | Not available | Data not provided |
| Agricultural Land Usage | 60% | Percentage of land used for agriculture (2023) |
| Total Fertility Rate | 2.78 children/woman | Estimated for 2024 |
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