Overview
Kiribati is a sovereign island nation situated in the Pacific Ocean, approximately 3,500 kilometers southwest of Hawaii. The country comprises 33 coral atolls and islands, with a total land area of approximately 811 square kilometers. With a population of around 119,449 people, Kiribati is one of the smallest countries in the world. The capital and largest city is Tarawa, which is home to over 50% of the country's population. Kiribati is a member of the Commonwealth of Nations and the Pacific Islands Forum.The country's name, Kiribati, is derived from the Gilbertese language, meaning "gathering place." This name reflects the country's history as a gathering place for various Pacific Island cultures. Kiribati has a rich cultural heritage, with a unique blend of Micronesian, Polynesian, and Melanesian influences. The country's people are known for their warm hospitality and resilience in the face of adversity.
Kiribati is often referred to as the "first country to be affected by climate change." Rising sea levels and increased storm intensity pose significant threats to the country's very existence. In recent years, Kiribati has become a global leader in climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts. The country's government has implemented various initiatives to address the impacts of climate change, including the development of a national climate change policy and the establishment of a climate change trust fund.
History/Background
Kiribati has a long and complex history, with evidence of human habitation dating back to around 1000 BCE. The country was first inhabited by Micronesian settlers, who arrived from the Marshall Islands. Over time, the islands were also influenced by Polynesian and Melanesian cultures, which arrived from the west and south. In the 16th century, European explorers, including Spanish and British sailors, began to visit the islands.In the late 19th century, Kiribati was colonized by the British, who established a protectorate over the islands in 1890. During this period, the country's name was changed from the Gilbert Islands to Kiribati. In 1979, Kiribati gained independence from Britain, with Tarawa becoming the country's capital.
