A 32-member police constabulary, the only security force, is responsible to and effectively controlled by civilian authority. The primarily subsistence economy relies mainly on coconuts, taro, and fishing. An agreement was completed in 1998 with a Canadian telecommunications company for use of the country's Internet address. Remittances from Tuvaluans working abroad as well as the sale of postage stamps and of fishing licenses to foreign vessels provide additional foreign exchange. The country's isolation and meager natural resources limit the prospects for economic development.
Society is egalitarian, democratic, and respectful of human rights.
However, social behavior, as determined by custom and tradition, is considered as important as the law and is ensured by village elders. There were no specific reports of human rights abuses. However, in the traditional culture of the islands, women occupy a subordinate role, with limits on their job opportunities. Recently there has been a substantial effort to accord women equality in employment and decisionmaking. There were no reports of political or other extrajudicial killings.