Micronesia

Micronesia is a geographic region in the western Pacific Ocean consisting of thousands of small islands and atolls, organized into several archipelagos. It includes parts of the Caroline, Gilbert, and Mariana island groups and spans a wide area from the eastern Philippines toward the central Pacific. The region features coral atolls, volcanic islands, and diverse marine environments within a tropical climate.

Politically, Micronesia is not a single entity. It comprises several independent nations—most notably the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Republic of Palau, Nauru, and Kiribati—as well as U.S. territories such as Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands. The Federated States of Micronesia consists of Yap, Chuuk, Pohnpei, and Kosrae. Some states maintain Compact of Free Association agreements with the United States, providing defense arrangements and financial support.

Historically, indigenous peoples inhabited Micronesia for millennia before European contact. The area was claimed by Spain in the 16th century, then administered by Germany and Japan in successive periods. After World War II, many islands were under U.S. trusteeship, with independence or sovereign status achieved by the late 20th century. Today, several states maintain formal relationships with the United States through compacts that influence security and aid.

Economy and society are characterized by small, developing economies with subsistence agriculture and fishing at their core. Tuna fishing and processing, limited tourism, and external aid are important economic components. The region has a combined population of roughly half a million, and a range of local languages alongside English used in governance and education.

Environment and culture in Micronesia emphasize resilience to climate change and the sea. Traditional navigation, art, music, and a variety of languages—such as Chuukese, Pohnpeian, Yapese, and Palauan—coexist with modern institutions.