Country Profile: Wallis and Futuna
Wallis and Futuna is a small French overseas collectivity located in the South Pacific Ocean, known for its tropical climate and volcanic terrain. The population of approximately 15,964 consists mostly of Polynesian ethnicities, with a strong sense of community anchored in traditional customs and Roman Catholic faith. The economy is primarily agrarian and dependent on French subsidies, with agriculture, fishing, and remittances from expatriates being critical for financial stability. As a territory governed under French law, Wallis and Futuna retains some local governance through its parliamentary system.
Geography
Wallis and Futuna consists of four main islands—Wallis Island, Futuna Island, Alofi, and several islets—with a combined area of 142 sq km. The islands are characterized by volcanic origins, low hills, and a climate that features a hot, rainy season and a cooler, dry season. These islands have no significant land boundaries and are surrounded by a 129 km coastline that supports a diverse marine ecosystem.
- Average temperature: 26.6°C
- Rainfall: 250-300 cm annually
- Highest point: Mont Singavi at 522 m
- Total agricultural land: 42.3% (2023 estimate)
- Forest cover: 74.9% (2023 estimate)
People and Society
The population of Wallis and Futuna is approximately 15,964, predominantly Polynesian, and is known for its rich cultural heritage. The official languages are Wallisian, Futunian, and French, with 99% of the population identifying as Roman Catholic. The society is characterized by a youthful demographic, with nearly 67.5% of the population aged between 15 and 64 years.
- Literacy rate: 99.8% (2023 estimate)
- Life expectancy: 81.1 years (2024 estimate)
- Median age: 36.3 years (2024 estimate)
- Birth rate: 11.8 births/1,000 (2024 estimate)
- Total fertility rate: 1.71 children/woman (2024 estimate)
Economy
The economy of Wallis and Futuna is classified as lower-middle-income and heavily reliant on agriculture, with products like coconuts, breadfruit, and fish being vital. French subsidies play a critical role in the economic landscape, alongside remittances from citizens living abroad, particularly in New Caledonia. The economy faces challenges related to deforestation and dependence on imports.
- Major agricultural products: Coconuts, yams, fish
- Exports to Denmark: 35% (2023)
- Imports from Fiji: 35% (2023)
- Economic reliance on French subsidies: crucial for stability
- Deforestation impact: significant on local economy
Government
Wallis and Futuna operates as a parliamentary democracy under French sovereignty, with a local assembly known as the Territorial Assembly. The political framework includes a chief of state from France and locally elected representatives. Despite being a French overseas collectivity, the islands maintain a unique cultural identity governed by traditional leadership alongside modern administrative structures.
- Capital: Mata-Utu
- Territorial Assembly seats: 20
- Voting age: 18 years
- Last election date: March 20, 2022
- National holiday: Fête de la Fédération on July 14
Military and Security
Defense responsibilities for Wallis and Futuna are managed by France, reflecting its status as an overseas collectivity. The territory does not maintain an independent military force and relies on French military support for security needs.
Energy
Details on energy consumption or production were not specified in the provided data.
Environment
Wallis and Futuna faces significant environmental issues, including deforestation and soil erosion, attributed to the reliance on wood for fuel. The islands also experience natural hazards such as cyclones and tsunamis, while the lack of freshwater resources poses challenges to agricultural productivity.
- Environmental issues: Deforestation and soil erosion
- Climate type: Tropical
- Annual rainfall: 250-300 cm
- Soil fertility issues: Notably on Uvea and Futuna
Transportation
Transportation options include two airports and a limited merchant marine fleet, reflecting the remote nature of the islands. The primary port is located in Mata-Utu, which supports local trade and transportation.
- Airports: 2 (2025 estimate)
- Merchant marine vessels: 1 general cargo ship
- Total ports: 1 (2024 estimate)
Communications
Wallis and Futuna's communication infrastructure includes a modest number of fixed-line subscriptions and limited internet access, with efforts to connect the population to broader digital networks.
- Fixed-line telephone subscriptions: 3,000 (2021 estimate)
- Internet users: 45.8% of the population (2021 estimate)
- Mobile cellular subscriptions: 0 (2018)
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 15,964 | 2024 estimate |
| Area | 142 sq km | Total land area |
| GDP | Not specified | Import-dependent economy |
| Literacy Rate | 99.8% | 2023 estimate |
| Life Expectancy | 81.1 years | 2024 estimate |
| Birth Rate | 11.8 births/1,000 | 2024 estimate |
| Unemployment Rate | Not specified | |
| Energy Consumption | Not specified | |
| Agricultural Land | 42.3% | 2023 estimate |
| Median Age | 36.3 years | 2024 estimate |
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