Palau
- Political Reports:
- Background
- Economic Reports:
- Background
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Economy Background Archives
- November 24, 2009: Palau: Resources and infrastructure
- November 24, 2009: Palau: Economic sectors
- November 24, 2009: Palau: Main indicators
- November 24, 2009: Palau: The economy
- August 27, 2007: Pacific Islands: Palau - Resources and infrastructure
- August 27, 2007: Pacific Islands: Palau - Economic background
- July 26, 2006: Palau: Main indicators
- July 26, 2006: Palau: Economic sectors
- July 26, 2006: Palau: Economic overview
- July 26, 2006: Palau: Resources and infrastructure
Politics:
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Background
Palau: Politics
FROM THE ECONOMIST INTELLIGENCE UNIT
Palau achieved independence from the US in 1994
Palau is an independent republic in free association with the US. It achieved internal self-governance in 1981 and independence in 1994. Independence was attained only after a series of bitterly fought referendums over ratification of the Compact of Free Association, an economic, strategic and political treaty between Palau and the US. The central issue in the debate was whether the country would be allowed to have nuclear-free status. Palau conducts its own domestic and foreign affairs, and the US controls Palau's defence and security matters and has exclusive access to Palau's waterways.
The constitution provides for popular elections for the president and vice-president every four years. Legislative power is exercised by the 30-seat National Congress (known as Olbiil Era Kelulau', or the meeting place of whispers), made up of a Senate and a House of Delegates, both elected by popular vote. Palau is probably one of the most over-governed countries in the world. There are 14 senators, who represent geographical districts, and 16 delegates, one for each state of the republic. Each state also elects its own legislature and governor.
Johnson Toribiong was elected president in November 2008, succeeding Thomas Remengesau, who had completed two four-year terms. The next election will take place in November 2012.
November 24, 2009
Economy:
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Background
Palau: Resources and infrastructure
FROM THE ECONOMIST INTELLIGENCE UNIT
Palau is made up of hundreds of islands
Palau has eight main islands and 252 lesser ones, stretching over 650 km. The main island, Babeldaob, has a land area of 409 sq km. There are basic road systems on all the inhabited islands. Koror is Palau's commercial centre and former capital. There is one commercial port in Palau and one commercial shipping service (to Australia); other shipping services are organised by the government.
International connections are limited
There is an international airport on the main island near Koror, and one domestic airline. Air Micronesia, operating from Guam, provides international air links to Palau. Twice-weekly charter flights operate from Manila and Taipei, connecting Palau with various other Asian destinations. The inauguration of Melekeok as the new national capital took place in early October 2006. Construction of the new capitol complex included a new Senate building and new House of Delegates.
November 24, 2009
Country Briefing
FROM THE ECONOMIST INTELLIGENCE UNIT
Land area
458 sq km
Population
21,093 (July 2008 estimate)
Major islands
Babeldaob, Koror, Peleliu, Angaur, Kayangel, Ngervangel, Rock Islands, Ulong Island
Capital
Melekeok, Babeldaob
Climate
Temperature averages 25°-31° C
Weather in Koror
Heavy rainfall occurs from May to January and is heaviest in June and July. The drier period extends from February to April. Short periods of torrential rains result in more than 150 inches of rainfall a year
Languages
English and Palauan official in all states except Sonsoral (Sonorolese and English are official), Tobi (Tobi and English are official), and Anguar (Anguar, Japanese, and English are official)
Measures
Imperial
Currency
US dollar
Time
9 hours ahead of GMT
November 24, 2009