Overview
Kiribati is a sovereign island nation situated in the central Pacific Ocean, roughly halfway between Hawaii and Australia. With a total land area of approximately 811 square kilometers (313 square miles), it is one of the smallest countries in the world. The nation consists of 33 coral atolls, with a total of 313 islands, including the capital island, Tarawa. Kiribati has a population of around 119,449 people, with the majority residing on Tarawa. The country's name, "Kiribati," is derived from the Gilbertese language, meaning "the place of the Gilbert people." Kiribati is a member of the Commonwealth of Nations and the Pacific Islands Forum.
The country's unique geography is characterized by coral reefs, lagoons, and sandy beaches. The atolls are low-lying, with elevations ranging from sea level to a maximum of 2 meters (6.6 feet) above sea level. This makes Kiribati highly vulnerable to rising sea levels, climate change, and natural disasters. The country's economy is primarily based on fishing, copra production, and remittances from overseas workers.
History/Background
Kiribati has a rich and diverse history, with evidence of human habitation dating back to around 1000 BC. The islands were first inhabited by the Micronesians, who arrived from the Marshall Islands. In the 16th century, European explorers, including the Spanish and British, began to visit the islands. In 1890, Kiribati became a British protectorate, and in 1916, it was annexed by the British Empire. After World War II, Kiribati became a United Nations Trust Territory, administered by the British. In 1979, Kiribati gained independence, with Tarawa's I-Kiribati people electing the country's first president, Ieremia Tabai.
Key Information
- Capital: Tarawa
- Population: 119,449 (2020 estimate)
- Area: 811 square kilometers (313 square miles)
- Language: Gilbertese (official), English (widely spoken)
- Currency: Australian dollar (AUD)
- Government: Parliamentary republic
- Economy: Fishing, copra production, remittances from overseas workers
- Climate: Tropical marine climate, with high temperatures and humidity throughout the year
Significance
Kiribati is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it is a prime example of a country threatened by climate change, with rising sea levels and increased frequency of natural disasters posing a significant risk to its very existence. Secondly, Kiribati has a unique cultural heritage, with a rich history and diverse traditions. The country's people, known as the I-Kiribati, have a strong sense of identity and community, which is reflected in their language, customs, and way of life. Finally, Kiribati has played an important role in regional and international affairs, including its membership in the Pacific Islands Forum and its participation in the United Nations.
