Overview
Kiribati is a sovereign island nation situated in the Pacific Ocean, approximately 3,500 kilometers southwest of Hawaii. With a total area of 811 square kilometers, it comprises 33 coral atolls and islands, stretching across 3.5 million square kilometers of ocean. The country's capital, Tarawa, is home to over 50% of the population, which is approximately 119,449 people, according to the 2020 census. 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 "the place of the Gilberts." The Gilbert Islands, as they were previously known, were a British protectorate from 1890 until 1979, when Kiribati gained independence. The country's unique geography, with its chain of islands and coral atolls, has shaped its culture, history, and way of life.
Kiribati is a predominantly Christian nation, with the majority of its population practicing the I-Kiribati faith, a blend of traditional and Christian beliefs. The country's rich cultural heritage is reflected in its vibrant music, dance, and art, which are deeply rooted in its Pacific Island traditions. The I-Kiribati people are known for their warm hospitality, love of storytelling, and strong sense of community.
History/Background
The history of Kiribati dates back to the 13th century, when the islands were first inhabited by Micronesian and Polynesian settlers. The country's strategic location in the Pacific made it an important stopover for traders and sailors, including the famous explorer, Captain James Cook, who visited the islands in 1777. The British established a protectorate over the Gilbert Islands in 1890, which lasted for nearly a century until Kiribati gained independence on July 12, 1979.During World War II, Kiribati played a significant role as a base for Allied forces, and the country suffered heavily during the war. In the post-war period, Kiribati continued to develop its economy and infrastructure, with a focus on fishing, copra production, and tourism. However, the country's unique geography and climate have made it vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, including rising sea levels and increased frequency of natural disasters.
Key Information
- Location: Kiribati is situated in the central Pacific Ocean, approximately 3,500 kilometers southwest of Hawaii. - Capital: Tarawa - Population: 119,449 (2020 census) - Area: 811 square kilometers - Language: Gilbertese (official), English (widely spoken) - Currency: Australian dollar (AUD) - Government: Unitary parliamentary republic - Economy: Fishing, copra production, tourismKiribati is known for its rich cultural heritage, unique geography, and resilience in the face of climate change. The country has made significant progress in recent years, including the development of a new constitution, which came into effect in 2016. Kiribati has also taken a leading role in international efforts to address climate change, including the Paris Agreement and the Pacific Islands Forum.
