Tuvalu, officially known as the Republic of Tuvalu, is a constitutional monarchy and a member of the Commonwealth. This collection of islands, numbering around 105, remains one of the world's least-populous and least-developed countries. Here, marine tourism, agriculture, and fishing are the key economic activities.
Expat destinations in Tuvalu
Demographics of Tuvalu:
Ethnic groups
The vast majority of Tuvaluans are Polynesians, specifically, Tuvaluan Polynesians and Tokelauans. In a 2020 survey, 99.2% of the population identified as Tuvaluan.
Languages
Tuvaluan and English are the official languages of Tuvalu.
Religion Overview
The majority of Tuvaluans are Christians, mainly Protestants. The Church of Tuvalu, a branch of the London Missionary Society, is the largest Protestant denomination in the country, representing an estimated 95% of the population.
Major Religions
Climate
Tuvalu's tropical climate is characterised by year-round warm temperatures, high humidity, and frequent showers. The island nation is exposed to rising sea levels and cyclones, a severe risk that intensifies its vulnerability to natural disasters.
Economy Overview
Tuvalu's small size, isolation, and limited natural resources, including a deficiency of arable land, create inherent economic constraints. To mitigate these, the government sustains a focus on poverty alleviation and social services while increasing reliance on international aid and funding.
Key Industries
- Tourism
- Agriculture
- Fishing
Major Companies
Culture and Language Overview
Tuvalu's Polynesian heritage is reflected in its traditional practices, religion, and ceremonies such as the Teauo ceremony, where families unite to celebrate births or weddings. Made with coconut cream, the kai kai fare is a common Tuvaluan meal.
Cultural Highlights
- Teuau ceremony: A group celebration usually performed by families to welcome new babies, celebrate milestones or sanction important daily events.
- Kai Kai Fare: Made with coconut cream teamed with sliced fruits, this dish has become Tuvalu's most popular food.
- Traditional Dance: Tuvaluans incorporate traditional dance into their daily cultural experiences, sometimes performed during ceremonies.
Geography and Landmarks Overview
Tuvalu's parcel of 9 atolls and reef islands, uninhabited subsidiary islands, and a submerged coral reef atoll is a testament to its isolation. The country's capital Funafuti is the most prominent landmass, home to diverse marine species and terrestrial life.
Notable Landmarks
- Funafuti: A coral atoll composed of 11 islets, some with distinctive features such as Nanumanga Island, distinguished by its white beach and coconut trees.
- Tefolhu: Also called Stars Edge, is a coral island in the Funafuti Atoll. Its quainter profile and clear waters, in particular, distinguish it as an exquisite diving site.
- Tokelau: Although classified as a dependent territory, Tokelau comprises 3 atolls belonging to Tuvalu and is home to endemic species like the Tokelau Green Turtle.
National Holidays
- New Year's Day (January 1)
- Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth's Birthday (second Monday in June)
- Constitution Day (October 31)
- Christmas Day (December 25)
Political Stability
Tuvalu's democracy entails a parliamentary system with a Prime Minister serving as the head of government. Although in principle, the state is committed to adherence to human rights and fundamental freedoms, its capacity to ensure these may be limited by external pressures affecting its economic and social stability.
Find out more about expats in Oceania
