Overview of Palau

Profile

Palau consists of over 300 islands, with capital Ngerulmud and commercial center Koror as political and economic hubs. Lagoons woven by limestone islands have become diving meccas as world-class tourist destinations, gaining attention for advanced environmental policies including shark sanctuaries. A young republic gaining independence in 1994 after passing through former Spanish, German, Japanese, and U.S. administrations, using English and U.S. dollars while maintaining matrilineal society traditions.

Official name: Republic of Palau
Common name: Palau
Numeric code: 585
Alpha-3 code: PLW
Alpha-2 code: PW
Population: Approximately 18,000 people (2023)
Population density: Approximately 39 people/km²
Primary languages: Palauan, English
Major religions: Catholic, Protestant
National anthem: Belau rekid (Our Palau)
Calling code: +680
Internet TLD: .pw

History

Passed through multiple colonial periods to independence in October 1994

Europeans arrived in 16th century, became German territory in 1899, then Japanese mandate after WWI with social infrastructure development. Became fierce WWII battlefield, followed by U.S. trust administration from 1947. Through repeated referendums over constitution's nuclear ban clause, concluded Compact of Free Association gaining UN membership in 1994. While U.S. still handles defense, has cultivated unique political culture where traditional chieftaincy and modern democracy coexist.

Geography & climate

Volcanic island Babeldaob and limestone Rock Islands, atoll groups connected in mosaic pattern, surrounded by highly transparent lagoons

Tropical rainforest climate (Af)

Area: Oceania / 459 km²
Capital: Ngerulmud
Largest city: Koror
Coastal status: Yes

Natural resources

Tropical timber, Tuna and marlin fishery resources, Phosphate ore, Tourism resources, Black pearls, Solar energy, Wind power, Mangrove forests, Medicinal plants, Freshwater groundwater

Politics

Government: Presidential republic (under Compact of Free Association)

Economy

Currency: United States Dollar (USD)

GDP (nominal): 2.7 hundred million USD (2023)

GDP (PPP): 8.3 hundred million international dollars (2023)

Language & timezone

Primary languages: Palauan, English

Time zone: Palau Time

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

Palauan Micronesians, Japanese-Palauans, Filipinos, Chinese, Carolinians, Bangladeshi

Life expectancy

71.3 years (2022 estimate)

Literacy rate

96.6%

National sports

Outrigger canoe racing, Baseball, Soccer, Basketball, Volleyball, Fishing competition, Canoe Polynesian racing