Vanuatu

Vanuatu is an island nation in the South Pacific Ocean, part of the Melanesian region of Oceania. It comprises about 80 islands, of which around 65 are inhabited, stretching north-south east of Australia and northeast of New Caledonia. The capital and largest city is Port Vila, located on Efate Island. The country has a population of roughly 320,000.

Vanuatu operates as a parliamentary republic. The head of state is a president, while the prime minister is the head of government and holds most executive power. The unicameral National Parliament has 52 members elected for four-year terms. The official languages are Bislama, English, and French; numerous indigenous languages are also spoken. The Ni-Vanuatu are the predominant people.

Economy is small and diverse but vulnerable to natural hazards. Key sectors include tourism, agriculture, fishing, and offshore financial services. Major exports include copra, kava, beef, and timber. The currency is the vatu (VUV). Vanuatu experiences a tropical climate, with a wet season and risks from cyclones and volcanic activity on several islands, such as Yasur on Tanna.

Historically inhabited by Melanesian peoples, Vanuatu was jointly administered by Britain and France as the New Hebrides from 1906 until independence in 1980. The country adopted the name Vanuatu at independence; it is often translated as “our land forever.” A traditional kastom system coexists with modern institutions, and customary land tenure remains significant in society.