Marshall Islands Facts

by countryaah · Published June 3, 2019 · Updated December 12, 2024

Marshall Islands, state of the western Pacific; 181 km², 58,000 residents (2019).The Marshall Islands consist of about 30 coral atolls with a total of over 1,000 islands, divided into two groups (Ratak in the east and Ralik in the west) spread over about 1,300 km. The largest atoll is Kwajalein (the world’s largest coral atoll). The Marshall Islands economic and administrative center is made up of the three islands of Dalap, Uliga and Darrit, called DUD, all of which are part of the Majuro Atoll. The capital is Rita on the Majuro Atoll.

Country facts

Republic of the Marshall Islands / Republic of the Marshall Islands
Country abbreviation: MH
Area: 181 km²
Population (2019): 58,000 residents
Capital: Rita
Main language: English
State: Republic
Head of State and Head of Government: Hilda C. Heine (President)
Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 3,621
GNI per capita (2018): US $ 4,740
Currency unit: US $ 1 = 100 cents
Currency code: USD
Country number (telephony): 692
Internet domain name: mh
Time difference compared to Sweden: +11
National Day: May 1 (Independence Day, 1979)

Nature

Land use: forest (22%), agricultural land (33%), other (45%)
Highest mountain: unnamed elevation on the island of Likiep (10 m above sea level)

Population

Population density (2019): 320 residents per km²
Natural population growth (2019): 2.1%; birthrate 25 ‰, death count 4 ‰
Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (39%), 15-64 (58%), 65- (3%)
Life expectancy (2019): men 71 years, women 73 years
Infant mortality (2019): 23 per 1,000 live births
Population forecast 2050: 70,000 residents
HDI (2017): 0.708 (place 106 of 189)
Urbanization rate (2019): 77%
Most populous urban area (2012): Rita (20,300 residents)

Business

Industry’s contribution to GDP (2013): agriculture (4%), industry (10%), service (86%)
Exports (2013): US $ 54 million
Main export products: copra, coconuts, fish
Main exporting countries: USA, Japan, Australia
Imports (2013): US $ 134 million
Main import products: food, machinery, fuel
Main importing countries: USA, Japan, Australia
Railway network: nothing in operation

Geography of the Marshall Islands

Location and Boundaries

The Marshall Islands is a small island nation located in the central Pacific Ocean, approximately halfway between Hawaii and Australia. It consists of 29 atolls and 5 isolated islands, which together form a chain of more than 1,200 islands and islets. The country covers an area of around 181 square kilometers of land, making it one of the smallest countries in the world by land area. However, it has an expansive Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) covering over 2 million square kilometers of ocean.

The islands are part of the Micronesian region and are scattered over a vast area, with the capital, Majuro, located on one of the largest atolls, Majuro Atoll. Other major atolls include Kwajalein, Ebeye, and Wotje. The islands are situated north of the equator and are spread across several degrees of latitude and longitude, making transportation and communication between the islands challenging.

Terrain and Landscape

The Marshall Islands consists of low-lying coral atolls with no significant elevation. The highest point in the country is only about 10 meters (33 feet) above sea level, which makes the islands extremely vulnerable to rising sea levels caused by climate change. The terrain is generally flat, with islands surrounded by lagoons and reef systems. There are few natural resources on the islands, and much of the land is covered by coconut palms, pandanus trees, and other tropical vegetation.

The atolls and islands are formed from coral reefs, and many of them have been created through the accumulation of coral debris over thousands of years. The reefs, while vital to the ecology and economy of the Marshall Islands, are also fragile and can be threatened by human activity and environmental changes.

Oceans and Marine Life

The surrounding Pacific Ocean is vital to the Marshall Islands. Its waters are home to diverse marine life, including fish, sea turtles, and various coral species, making it an important region for fishing and biodiversity. The marine environment also supports several ecosystems, including coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangrove forests, which are essential for the health of the islands’ coastline and for providing food sources for the population.

The ocean surrounding the Marshall Islands is rich in tuna, which is one of the country’s primary resources for both local consumption and export. The islands’ location within the tropical zone gives it a diverse and vibrant marine life, attracting tourists for diving and snorkeling.

Climate of the Marshall Islands

Tropical Climate

The Marshall Islands experiences a tropical climate characterized by year-round warm temperatures and high humidity. Average temperatures typically range from 26°C (79°F) to 30°C (86°F), with relatively small seasonal fluctuations. The climate is influenced by the trade winds that blow from the northeast, which provide some cooling relief during the warmer months.

The weather in the Marshall Islands is relatively consistent, with only minor variations in temperature throughout the year. This predictability in climate makes the islands a popular destination for tourism, although its low-lying nature makes the country highly vulnerable to climate-related hazards.

Rainfall and Seasons

The Marshall Islands’ rainy season typically occurs from May to November, though rainfall can be unpredictable. The islands experience moderate rainfall throughout the year, but the wettest months tend to be during the mid-year months. The rainy season is accompanied by occasional tropical storms, which can bring heavy rains and winds to the islands, although typhoons are relatively infrequent compared to other parts of the Pacific. These storms, however, can cause damage to the islands’ infrastructure and ecosystems, making the country more susceptible to climate-related disruptions.

The dry season lasts from December to April and is generally characterized by lower rainfall and more consistent sunshine. This period is particularly favored for tourism and outdoor activities.

Environmental Concerns

The most pressing environmental concern in the Marshall Islands is the threat posed by rising sea levels. As one of the lowest-lying countries in the world, even a modest increase in sea levels could have significant consequences. Coastal flooding, saltwater intrusion into freshwater sources, and loss of land to the ocean are ongoing concerns. These threats have already started affecting the infrastructure of the islands, and the nation continues to seek international cooperation and support to address climate change and its environmental impacts.

People of the Marshall Islands

Population and Demographics

The population of the Marshall Islands is approximately 58,000 people, making it one of the least populated nations in the world. The people are spread across the islands, with the majority living in the capital city, Majuro, and the island of Ebeye, which houses a significant portion of the population in a small, urban area. The population density is highest in Majuro, where much of the nation’s government, businesses, and educational institutions are located.

The population is predominantly ethnically Marshallese, a Micronesian group that shares cultural and linguistic ties with other Pacific islanders. Marshallese society is organized around extended families and traditional kinship networks, and the islanders have a strong sense of community and shared identity.

Ethnicity and Languages

The Marshallese people belong to the broader group of Micronesians, and their language, Marshallese, is a member of the Austronesian language family. Marshallese is the official language of the country and is spoken by the majority of the population. English is also an official language and is widely used in government, education, and commerce.

Many Marshallese people are bilingual, with English often being spoken as a second language, particularly in urban areas where access to education and international trade is more common. The Marshallese language has distinct dialects, and variations in pronunciation and vocabulary can be found across the different atolls.

Religion and Beliefs

Christianity is the dominant religion in the Marshall Islands, with the majority of the population identifying as Protestant. The two main branches of Christianity are the Protestant Church of the Marshall Islands and the Roman Catholic Church, which together constitute the majority of religious affiliations. Christianity plays an important role in daily life and cultural practices, and the country observes Christian holidays such as Christmas and Easter.

Traditional beliefs, including respect for nature and ancestor worship, continue to play a role in the islanders’ culture, especially in more rural areas where customs and traditions are still upheld. These traditional beliefs are often practiced alongside Christian faith, with many Marshallese people identifying as both Christian and traditional.

Economy of the Marshall Islands

Overview of the Economy

The economy of the Marshall Islands is small and heavily dependent on foreign aid, particularly from the United States, and on its strategic location in the Pacific. The country’s GDP is relatively low, and the economy is primarily driven by services, particularly in government administration, infrastructure, and tourism. Agriculture and fishing are important, but the country is not self-sufficient in food production, relying on imports for many essential goods.

The Marshall Islands benefits from a Compact of Free Association with the United States, which provides financial assistance, including funding for infrastructure development, healthcare, and education. This compact, in addition to other foreign aid, plays a critical role in the country’s economy and public services.

Fishing Industry

Fishing, particularly tuna fishing, is one of the most important sectors of the Marshall Islands’ economy. The country’s vast Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) is rich in tuna, which is one of the most valuable fish stocks in the world. Tuna fishing, including both commercial fishing and the processing of tuna for export, is a significant source of income for the nation.

The Marshall Islands is also a member of the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA), which helps manage the sustainable use of its fishing resources. Tuna fishing generates substantial revenue through licensing agreements with foreign fleets that are allowed to fish in the country’s waters, contributing to the economy and government coffers.

Tourism

Tourism is a growing sector of the economy, driven by the islands’ pristine environment, coral reefs, and cultural heritage. The Marshall Islands offers unique opportunities for tourists to engage in activities such as diving, snorkeling, and eco-tourism. Visitors are drawn to the islands’ beautiful landscapes and the opportunity to explore the Marshallese culture and history.

Despite its remote location, the Marshall Islands attracts tourists from around the world, particularly those interested in adventure tourism and ecological travel. However, the tourism industry remains small compared to other Pacific island nations, and it faces challenges related to the islands’ distance from major tourist markets, limited infrastructure, and environmental concerns.

Agriculture and Industry

Agriculture is limited in the Marshall Islands due to the small size and low fertility of the land. Coconut farming is the primary agricultural activity, and copra (dried coconut) is produced for export. Other crops, such as bananas, breadfruit, and taro, are grown for local consumption, but the country relies heavily on imports for food and goods.

The country has very little industrial activity, and the manufacturing sector is limited to small-scale operations. There is some shipbuilding and repair activity, particularly related to the country’s use as a base for tuna fishing fleets and the U.S. military. However, the economy largely depends on service industries and external financial assistance.

Government of the Marshall Islands

Political System and Structure

The Marshall Islands operates as a presidential republic. The country has a mixed political system in which the president is both the head of state and government. The president is elected by the Nitijela, the national legislature, and serves a four-year term. The Nitijela consists of 33 members, who are elected by popular vote for four-year terms.

The government of the Marshall Islands is based on a constitution that was adopted in 1979, shortly after the country became self-governing under the Compact of Free Association with the United States. The legislative branch consists of two chambers: the Nitijela (the lower house) and the Council of Iroij (the upper house), which represents the traditional leadership of the islands.

Compact of Free Association

The United States and the Marshall Islands maintain a Compact of Free Association (COFA), which has provided the Marshall Islands with financial aid, infrastructure assistance, and defense support since the country gained independence in 1986. Under the compact, the United States provides significant funding for the country’s development, including health, education, and infrastructure projects.

In exchange, the United States has the right to establish military bases in the Marshall Islands, which are strategically located in the Pacific Ocean. The compact also allows Marshallese citizens to live and work in the United States, providing economic opportunities for the population.

Judiciary

The judicial system of the Marshall Islands is based on American law, with a constitution that provides for an independent judiciary. The country has a Supreme Court, which is the highest court, and lower courts that handle civil and criminal matters. The judiciary is tasked with interpreting the laws of the nation and ensuring that they align with the principles laid out in the constitution.

Culture of the Marshall Islands

Traditional Arts and Crafts

The culture of the Marshall Islands is deeply rooted in its island traditions and history. The Marshallese people have a rich cultural heritage that includes distinct forms of art, music, and dance. Traditional crafts such as weaving, shell and wood carving, and creating mats and baskets are common. These crafts are often passed down through generations, and they continue to hold cultural significance in the community.

The use of decorative motifs, inspired by the sea and the environment, is common in Marshallese art, with woven mats and decorated ceremonial objects often bearing intricate designs. These works of art are an important part of daily life and are frequently used in community events and ceremonies.

Music and Dance

Music plays an important role in Marshallese culture, with traditional songs often passed down orally from generation to generation. These songs reflect various aspects of life in the Marshall Islands, including fishing, navigation, and the seasons. Traditional instruments include drums, wooden flutes, and shells, which are used in ceremonies and social gatherings.

Dance is also an important cultural expression in the Marshall Islands, with traditional dances performed at festivals, weddings, and other community events. These dances are characterized by rhythmic movements and are often accompanied by singing and the playing of traditional instruments.

Festivals and Celebrations

The Marshall Islands celebrates several traditional festivals and holidays, many of which are tied to the agricultural and fishing cycles of the islands. Traditional feasts, ceremonies, and communal gatherings are common ways for the Marshallese people to mark important occasions, such as the arrival of the harvest or significant religious holidays.

One of the most important events is the annual Nitijela Day, which commemorates the founding of the country’s legislature. Other national holidays include Independence Day, which is celebrated in October, marking the day the Marshall Islands became self-governing. The celebration includes festivities, parades, and communal feasts, reflecting the country’s collective spirit.

History of the Marshall Islands

Early History and Settlement

The history of the Marshall Islands dates back thousands of years. The islands were first settled by Micronesian peoples, who arrived in the region from Southeast Asia and the Philippines. They established complex navigational systems to travel between the islands, creating a sophisticated culture centered around oral traditions, agriculture, and fishing.

The early Marshallese were skilled navigators, using the stars, winds, and ocean currents to travel across the vast Pacific Ocean. These navigational skills allowed them to create networks of trade and communication between the islands, fostering a sense of community and shared culture across the archipelago.

Colonial Period and U.S. Influence

In the 19th and early 20th centuries, the Marshall Islands came under the control of various European powers, including Germany and Japan. After World War I, the islands became a League of Nations mandate under Japanese control. During World War II, the islands became a strategic military location, with the United States capturing them from Japan during the Pacific campaign.

Following the war, the Marshall Islands became part of the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands, administered by the United States. During this period, the U.S. conducted nuclear tests in the Marshall Islands, which had lasting impacts on the environment and the health of the local population.

Independence and Modern Era

The Marshall Islands gained independence in 1986, when the Compact of Free Association with the United States was signed, granting the country self-governance while maintaining a close relationship with the U.S. Since independence, the Marshall Islands has worked to overcome the challenges posed by its small size, remote location, and vulnerability to climate change.

Despite these challenges, the Marshall Islands has made significant progress in education, healthcare, and infrastructure. The country continues to face the ongoing issue of rising sea levels and climate change, which threatens its future.