Overview of Tuvalu

Profile

Tuvalu comprises nine islands (four islands and five atolls) totaling just 26km², making it world's fourth-smallest country. Maintains unique culture with rich lagoons, coconut palm-framed landscapes, traditional dance called Faatele, and ball game called Ano. Lacking natural resources, revenue pillars include fishing license fees, foreign aid, .tv domain licensing fees, and remittances from overseas workers. Strongly advocates climate change initiatives on international stage, targeting 100% renewable energy.

Official name: Tuvalu
Common name: Tuvalu
Numeric code: 798
Alpha-3 code: TUV
Alpha-2 code: TV
Population: Approx. 12,000 (2023)
Population density: Approx. 460
Primary languages: Tuvaluan, English
Major religions: Protestant (Church of Tuvalu)
National anthem: Tuvalu mo te Atua (God Keep Tuvalu)
Calling code: +688
Internet TLD: .tv

History

Became British protectorate in 1892, gained independence October 1, 1978. Formerly called Ellice Islands.

After ancient Polynesian settlement, population drastically declined in 19th century due to whaling ships and slave trade influence. Became British protectorate in 1892 together with Gilbert Islands; US military built base in Funafuti during World War II. 1974 referendum separated from Gilberts, gaining independence in 1978 as Commonwealth realm. In 2000, achieved UN membership and foreign currency through leasing top-level domain .tv to corporations. While standing on international stage regarding sea level rise issues, 2023 constitutional amendment declared 'even if territory submerges, nation continues to exist.'

Geography & climate

Flat coral reef islands scattered in chain formation, cradling lagoons centrally. Maximum elevation about 5m with much poor limestone soil.

Tropical oceanic (savanna-leaning)

Area: Oceania / 26 km²
Capital: Funafuti
Largest city: Funafuti
Coastal status: Yes

Natural resources

Abundant tuna fishing grounds, Coconuts, Solar power, Shell sand, Seabird guano, Freshwater lens for seawater desalination, Coral gravel, Lagoon as tourism resource

Politics

Government: Constitutional monarchy (Commonwealth realm) / Parliamentary cabinet system

Economy

Currency: Australian Dollar / Tuvaluan Dollar coins (AUD)

GDP (nominal): 6.4 million USD (2022)

GDP (PPP): 68.7 million international dollars (2022)

Language & timezone

Primary languages: Tuvaluan, English

Time zone: Tuvalu Time

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

Polynesian Tuvaluans, Micronesian descent, Other minority Western descent

Life expectancy

Approx. 66 years

Literacy rate

Approx. 99%

National sports

Football, Volleyball, Sailing, Ano (traditional ball game), Rugby, Canoe racing