Overview of Saint Pierre and Miquelon

Profile

An overseas collectivity of France consisting of eight islands located approximately 20 km south of Newfoundland. With an area of 242 km² and population of about 6,000, most residents are concentrated in the capital Saint-Pierre. The official language is French and the currency is the Euro. The economy centers on fishing, public sector employment, and seasonal tourism. Characterized by a cool oceanic climate, rugged coastlines, and rich marine ecosystems, with healthcare and education systems at par with mainland France.

Official name: Territorial Collectivity of Saint Pierre and Miquelon
Common name: Saint Pierre and Miquelon
Numeric code: 666
Alpha-3 code: SPM
Alpha-2 code: PM
Population: Approx. 6,000 (2022)
Population density: Approx. 25 people/km²
Primary languages: French
Major religions: Catholicism
National anthem: La Marseillaise
Calling code: +508
Internet TLD: .pm

History

Developed as a cod fishing base, prospering through alcohol smuggling during the 1920s Prohibition era. Currently holds special autonomy as France's only North American territory.

Basque, Norman, and Breton fishermen established settlements in the 16th century. After temporary abandonment under the 1713 Treaty of Utrecht, the islands returned to France through the 1763 Treaty of Paris. The 19th century saw prosperity through cod fishing, with a golden age during the 1920s as a smuggling port during U.S. Prohibition. On Christmas 1941, it became the first territory to join Free France. Post-war, it transitioned through TOM and DOM status to become an overseas collectivity (COM) in 2003. Today it maintains a unique identity where European culture blends with the North American environment.

Geography & climate

Glacially-eroded rounded hills and granite headlands, sandy isthmus connected by tombolo, dotted with peat bogs.

Subarctic oceanic climate (Cfc)

Area: North America / 242 km²
Capital: Saint-Pierre
Largest city: Saint-Pierre
Coastal status: Yes

Natural resources

Abundant cod resources, Snow crab, Seaweed, Wind power, Tidal energy, Peat, Migratory bird breeding grounds, Whale observation resources, Clean seawater, Scenic beauty

Politics

Government: Overseas Collectivity of the French Republic (Special Local Authority)

Economy

Currency: Euro (EUR)

GDP (nominal): 0.22 billion USD (2019)

GDP (PPP):

Language & timezone

Primary languages: French

Time zone: North American Atlantic Time

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

Norman, Breton, Basque, Acadian, Irish, British

Life expectancy

Approx. 82 years

Literacy rate

99%

National sports

Soccer, Ice Hockey, Sailing, Basketball, Trail Running