Geography

Physical geography

Palau (also known as Belau) is an archipelago of 343 islands, divided into six island groups in the Pacific Ocean. The total land area is 460 square kilometres. The islands vary in terrain from high mountains to low coral islands, usually fringed by large barrier reefs. The highest point on Palau is Mount Ngerchelchuus, which stands at an elevation of 242 metres.

Climate

The climate of Palau is tropical and the weather is hot and humid. It has a wet season from May to November. Cyclones are common from June to December.

Environment

Palau’s spectacular Rock Islands are protected in a marine reserve. Whales, dolphins, manta rays, sharks, turtles, 1,400 species of reef fish and 350 coral species are found in Palau’s waters.

Disposal of solid waste, threats to the marine ecosystem from sand and coral dredging, illegal fishing practices, and the depletion of fish stocks from overfishing are some of the current environmental concerns.

Population

Only eight of Palau’s islands are populated. The most populated state is Koror, which comprises the island of Koror and several others surrounding it. The majority of the people (82%) live in villages and towns throughout the country. It is estimated that 40% of the population live overseas, mainly in the USA.

People

Culture and identity

Most of the population are native Palauan, who are of Micronesian, Malayan and Melanesian descent. There is also a large Filipino population, as well as people from Chinese and other Asian communities, and European, Carolinian and other Micronesian peoples.

Palauan is the most common language, with local languages spoken on some islands. English, Filipino and Japanese are also widely spoken.

Though embracing some Western trappings, many Palauans identify with their traditional culture. Dances with slow fluid movement accompanied by chants are used to tell stories.

Health

Life expectancy for the total population is 69 years of age, with men averaging 66 years and women 72 years. Palau’s health statistics are very good compared to other Pacific Island countries. Infant mortality is 12 per 1,000 live births. Palau’s health system is largely funded by donations from the USA.

Religion and beliefs

Palauans are mainly Christian. The other major religions are Modekngei (indigenous to Palau), Seventh-day Adventist, Jehovah's Witness and Latter-day Saints. The 2000 census recorded 16% of the population as not following a religion.

Food and shelter

Taro, sweet potato, tapioca, bananas and breadfruit are an important part of the Palauan diet. Locally grown mango, coconut, pandanus and papaya are plentiful, as is seafood.

Traditionally, the extended family lives in homes built of wood on stilts, with nipa, palm thatch. The custom of ocheraol helps build community links through the provision of food, services and traditional money to help build a house. In cities, homes are built of concrete and tend to house just the nuclear families. They have electricity, running water and flush toilets. 

Economy

Wealth and poverty

Palau has one of the highest standards of living of the Pacific Island countries but it is heavily reliant on aid from the USA, delivered through a compact of free association.

Education and work

Education is compulsory for 6–14 year olds and 92% of the population aged over 15 can read and write.

Most people are involved in subsistence agriculture and fishing. The government employs a third of the workforce and, thanks to an expanding tourism industry, 50% of the workforce are employed in services.

Industries and products

Agricultural products include coconuts, copra, cassava (tapioca), sweet potatoes and fish. Industries are primarily tourism, construction, garment making and the crafting of items from shell, wood and pearls.

Trade

Export commodities include shellfish, tuna, copra and garments. Import commodities are machinery and equipment, fuels, metals and foodstuffs. Palau’s major trading partner is the USA.

Government

Palau is a democratic republic with executive and legislative branches. President Remengesau Jr  was elected for a four-year term in November 2012. The Council of Chiefs is an advisory body made up of the highest traditional chiefs from each of the 16 states. The council provides advice on matters concerning traditional laws and customs.

Achievements and challenges

Like many Pacific Island countries, Palau’s small population, geographic isolation, and shortage of skilled labour hinder development. With much of the skilled workforce living overseas and a low birth rate there are concerns for the country’s population growth and the preservation of Palauan culture and traditions.The growing tourism industry offers hope for economic progress.

Palau is currently on track to achieve targets only for MDG 3 (Promote Gender Equality and Empower Women), MDG 6 (Combat HIV/AIDS, Malaria and Other Diseases) and MDG 7 (Ensuring Environmental Sustainability).

Links with Australia

Australian aid to Palau will focus on helping Palau clear large amounts of unexploded ordnance (UXO) from World War II to improve public safety and reduce risks that UXOs present to the country’s people and tourism industry. There is also assistance for education and health.