After three decades as part of the UN Trust Territory of the Pacific under US administration, this westernmost cluster of the Caroline Islands opted for independence in 1978 rather than join the Federated States of Micronesia. A Compact of Free Association with the US was approved in 1986, but not ratified until 1993. It entered into force the following year, when the islands gained independence.
Country profile: Palau
More than 200 volcanic and coral islands, many of them surrounded by a single barrier reef, make up the northern Pacific nation of Palau.Its tropical waters are home to an abundance of marine life, making Palau a paradise for divers.
The scenery ranges from white sandy beaches to dense jungle. Palau endeavours to protect its wildlife from hunters and poachers. It embraces sustainable tourism.
Palau became independent in 1994, after being part of a United Nations trust territory administered by the US for 47 years.
It relies on financial aid from the US, provided under a Compact of Free Association which gives the US responsibility for Palau's defence and the right to maintain military bases there. Direct aid is set to wind up in 2009.
Tourism is low key, though growing in economic importance. Many visitors come from Taiwan, with which Palau has diplomatic ties. Taiwanese aid is a fillip to the economy. The government is Palau's largest employer.
Monoliths and other relics are reminders of an ancient culture that thrived on the islands, but Palau's recent history has been dominated by outside influences - from Spain, Britain, Germany, Japan and the US. Palau saw some of the region's fiercest fighting in World War II.
Though embracing some Western trappings, many Palauans identify with their traditional culture and its codes and rites.
Politics in Palau sometimes has been lively; the nation's first president was assassinated in 1985.
- Full name: Republic of Palau
- Population: 20,000 (UN)
- Capital: Government is moving from Koror to a new capital, Melekeok
- Area: 508 sq km (196 sq miles)
- Major languages: Palauan, English
- Major religions: Christianity, Modekngei (indigenous belief)
- Life expectancy: 67 years (men), 75 years (women) (UN)
- Monetary unit: 1 US dollar = 100 cents
- Main exports: Fish, garments
- GNI per capita: US $7,630 (World Bank, 2006)
- Internet domain: .pw
- International dialling code: +680
President: Tommy Remengesau
Tommy Remengesau was re-elected for a second four-year term in November 2004.
After his win, the president said economic growth needed to go hand in hand with the preservation of the environment.
Mr Remengesau says he wants to make Palau less dependent on American aid.
He says Palau should be an exclusive tourist destination, warning that the islands are not equipped to cope with a deluge of visitors.
The press
Television
There are no television stations based in Palau, but most households are hooked up to cable TV, which rebroadcasts US and satellite TV channels.
Radio
The economy consists primarily of tourism, subsistence agriculture, and fishing. The government is the major employer of the work force, relying heavily on financial assistance from the US. Business and tourist arrivals numbered 63,000 in 2003. The population enjoys a per capita income twice that of the Philippines and much of Micronesia. Long-run prospects for the key tourist sector have been greatly bolstered by the expansion of air travel in the Pacific, the rising prosperity of leading East Asian countries, and the willingness of foreigners to finance infrastructure development.
Palauan natural resources include forests, minerals (especially gold), marine products, deep-seabed minerals
westernmost archipelago in the Caroline chain, consists of six island groups totaling more than 300 islands; includes World War II battleground of Beliliou (Peleliu) and world-famous rock islands
Palauan religion is Roman Catholic 41.6%, Protestant 23.3%, Modekngei 8.8% (indigenous to Palau), Seventh-Day Adventist 5.3%, Jehovah's Witness 0.9%, Latter-Day Saints 0.6%, other religion 3.1%, unspecified or none 16.4% (2000 census).
Natural hazards in Palau include typhoons (June to December).
Travel Advice on Palau
SUMMARY
- There is no British consular representation in Palau. Consular matters are covered by the British Embassy in Manila, the Philippines.
- Only a handful of British tourists visit Palau each year. Most visits to Palau are trouble-free. We are not aware of any British nationals who have required consular assistance in Palau in the past year.
- The threat from terrorism in Palau is low. But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be against civilian targets including places frequented by foreigners.
- We strongly recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions, and that your travel policy covers you for the activities you want to undertake. Please see: Travel Insurance.
SAFETY AND SECURITY
You are advised to wear appropriate safety equipment before engaging in water sports. There are over 60 vertical drop-offs in the diving areas and some are for experienced divers only. Please take local advice on safety at all times when engaging in adventure sports.
LOCAL LAWS AND CUSTOMS
Homosexuality is technically illegal in many Pacific countries and the law is occasionally enforced. Open displays of affection between same-sex partners may offend local inhabitants.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
HEALTH
You should seek medical advice before travelling and ensure that all appropriate vaccinations are up to date. For further information on health, check the Department of Health’s websites at: www.dh.gov.uk.
GENERAL