Wallis & Futuna Islands
TerritoryAbout
The Wallis and Futuna Islands are a French overseas collectivity located in the South Pacific Ocean. The territory comprises two main island groups: the Wallis Islands (Uvea) and the Hoorn Islands (Futuna and Alofi), which are about 260 km apart. The islands have a total land area of approximately 142 km² and a population of around 11,200 residents. The capital, Mata-Utu, is situated on Uvea, which is more developed than Futuna. The population is predominantly Polynesian, with strong cultural ties to neighboring Pacific nations like Samoa and Tonga. The islands are volcanic in origin, with low hills and fringing reefs. The climate is tropical, with a hot rainy season and a cool dry season. Economically, the territory relies heavily on French government subsidies and remittances from expatriates. Most residents are Roman Catholic, and the official languages include Wallisian, Futunan, and French. Despite their remote location, the islands have a rich cultural heritage and a unique blend of Polynesian traditions and French influence. However, they face challenges such as limited economic opportunities, leading to significant emigration to New Caledonia.
