US State Dept Travel Advisory: The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens DO NOT TRAVEL to Grenada due to COVID-19. Consult its website via the link below for updates to travel advisories and statements on safety, security, local laws and special circumstances in this country.

https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html
Passport/Visa Requirements: US citizens should make sure their passport will not expire for at least 6 months after they enter the country even if they do not intend to stay that long. They should also make sure they have at least 1 blank page in their passport for any entry stamp that will be required. A visa is not required, although Grenada requires travelers to have evidence of return/onward travel arrangements.
US Embassy/Consulate: +(1)(473) 444-1174, +(1)(473) 444-1175; EMER: +(1)(473) 407-2495; US Embassy Grenada, L’Anse aux Epines Main Road, St. George, Grenada; https://bb.usembassy.gov/embassy/grenada/; StgeorgesACS@state.gov
Telephone Code: 1-473
Local Emergency Phone: Ambulance: 434; Fire: 112; Police: 911
Vaccinations: An International Certificate of Vaccination for yellow fever is required for travelers arriving from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission and for travelers having transited through the airport of a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. See WHO recommendations.

http://www.who.int/
Climate: Tropical; tempered by northeast trade winds
Currency (Code): East Caribbean dollars (XCD)
Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s): 230 V / 50 Hz / plug types(s): G

Major Languages: English, French patois
Major Religions: Protestant 49.2%, Roman Catholic 36%, Jehovah's Witness 1.2%, Rastafarian 1.2%
Time Difference: UTC-4 (1 hour ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Potable Water: Yes, but some opt for bottled water
International Driving Permit: Suggested; additionally, traveler will need to present their US driver's license & IDP to local police to pay a special registration fee
Road Driving Side: Left
Tourist Destinations: Grand Anse Beach; Saint George’s; Underwater Sculpture Park; Fort Frederick; Fort George; Grand Etang and Annandale Forest Reserves; Belmont Estate
Major Sports: Cricket, soccer
Cultural Practices: While it is normal to be late for social or personal meetings, Grenadians expect promptness for business.
Tipping Guidelines: Always examine the bill to see if a service charge has already been included. If not, leave 15% as a tip. Bellhops receive $1 (USD) per bag to carry luggage to your room. Taxi drivers generally receive a 10-15% tip on a fare or tour.Please visit the following links to find further information about your desired destination.

World Health Organization (WHO) - To learn what vaccines and health precautions to take while visiting your destination.

US State Dept Travel Information - Overall information about foreign travel for US citizens.

To obtain an international driving permit (IDP). Only two organizations in the US issue IDPs:
American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA)

How to get help in an emergency?
Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate, or call one of these numbers:
from the US or Canada - 1-888-407-4747 or from Overseas - +1 202-501-4444

Page last updated: Tuesday, March 22, 2022


Topic: Photos of New Caledonia

Topic: Introduction
Background: The first humans settled in New Caledonia around 1600 B.C. The Lapita were skilled navigators and evidence of their pottery around the Pacific has served as a guide for understanding human expansion in the region. Successive waves of migrants from other islands in Melanesia intermarried with the Lapita, giving rise to the Kanak ethnic group considered indigenous to New Caledonia. British explorer James COOK was the first European to visit New Caledonia in 1774, giving it the Latin name for Scotland. Missionaries first landed in New Caledonia in 1840. In 1853, France annexed New Caledonia to preclude any British attempt to claim the island. France declared it a penal colony in 1864 and sent more than 20,000 prisoners to New Caledonia in the ensuing three decades.

Nickel was discovered in 1864 and French prisoners were directed to mine it. France brought in indentured servants and enslaved labor from elsewhere in Southeast Asia to work the mines, blocking Kanaks from accessing the most profitable part of the local economy. In 1878, High Chief ATAI led a rebellion against French rule. The Kanaks were relegated to reservations, leading to periodic smaller uprisings and culminating in a large revolt in 1917 that was brutally suppressed by colonial authorities. During World War II, New Caledonia became an important base for Allied troops, and the US moved its South Pacific headquarters to the island in 1942. Following the war, New Caledonia was made an overseas territory and French citizenship was granted to all inhabitants in 1953, thereby permitting the Kanaks to move off the reservations.

The Kanak nationalist movement began in the 1950s but most voters chose to remain a territory in an independence referendum in 1958. The European population of New Caledonia boomed in the 1970s with a renewed focus on nickel mining, reigniting Kanak nationalism. Key Kanak leaders were assassinated in the early 1980s, leading to escalating violence and dozens of fatalities. The Matignon Accords of 1988 provided for a 10-year transition period. The Noumea Accord of 1998 transferred an increasing amount of governing responsibility from France to New Caledonia over a 20-year period and provided for three independence referenda. In the first held in 2018, voters rejected independence by 57 to 43 percent; in the second held in 2020, voters rejected independence 53 to 47 percent. In the third referendum held in December 2021, voters rejected independence 96 to 4 percent; however, a boycott by key Kanak groups spurred challenges about the legitimacy of the vote. In February 2021, pro-independence parties gained a majority in the New Caledonian Government for the first time.Visit the Definitions and Notes page to view a description of each topic.

Topic: Geography
Location: Oceania, islands in the South Pacific Ocean, east of Australia
Geographic coordinates: 21 30 S, 165 30 E
Map references: Oceania
Area: total: 18,575 sq km

land: 18,275 sq km

water: 300 sq km
Area - comparative: slightly smaller than New Jersey
Land boundaries: total: 0 km
Coastline: 2,254 km
Maritime claims: territorial sea: 12 nm

exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
Climate: tropical; modified by southeast trade winds; hot, humid
Terrain: coastal plains with interior mountains
Elevation: highest point: Mont Panie 1,628 m

lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
Natural resources: nickel, chrome, iron, cobalt, manganese, silver, gold, lead, copper
Land use: agricultural land: 10.4% (2018 est.)

arable land: 0.4% (2018 est.)

permanent crops: 0.2% (2018 est.)

permanent pasture: 9.8% (2018 est.)

forest: 45.9% (2018 est.)

other: 43.7% (2018 est.)
Irrigated land: 100 sq km (2012)
Population distribution: most of the populace lives in the southern part of the main island, in and around the capital of Noumea
Natural hazards: cyclones, most frequent from November to Marchvolcanism: Matthew and Hunter Islands are historically activecyclones, most frequent from November to Marchvolcanism: Matthew and Hunter Islands are historically active
Geography - note: consists of the main island of New Caledonia (one of the largest in the Pacific Ocean), the archipelago of Iles Loyaute, and numerous small, sparsely populated islands and atolls
Map description: New Caledonia map showing the various islands that comprise this French territorial archipelago in the Coral Sea.New Caledonia map showing the various islands that comprise this French territorial archipelago in the Coral Sea.

Topic: People and Society
Population: 297,160 (2022 est.)
Nationality: noun: New Caledonian(s)

adjective: New Caledonian
Ethnic groups: Kanak 39.1%, European 27.1%, Wallisian, Futunian 8.2%, Tahitian 2.1%, Indonesian 1.4%, Ni-Vanuatu 1%, Vietnamese 0.9%, other 17.7%, unspecified 2.5% (2014 est.)
Languages: French (official), 33 Melanesian-Polynesian dialects

major-language sample(s):
The World Factbook, une source indispensable d'informations de base. (French)

The World Factbook, the indispensable source for basic information.
Religions: Christian 85.2%, Muslim 2.8%, other 1.6%, unaffiliated 10.4% (2020 est.)
Age structure: 0-14 years: 21.74% (male 32,227/female 30,819)

15-24 years: 15.63% (male 23,164/female 22,163)

25-54 years: 43.73% (male 63,968/female 62,856)

55-64 years: 9.06% (male 12,700/female 13,568)

65 years and over: 9.84% (2020 est.) (male 12,552/female 15,992)
Dependency ratios: total dependency ratio: 46.6

youth dependency ratio: 32.4

elderly dependency ratio: 14.2

potential support ratio: 7 (2020 est.)
Median age: total: 32.9 years

male: 32.1 years

female: 33.7 years (2020 est.)
Population growth rate: 1.19% (2022 est.)
Birth rate: 14.13 births/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Death rate: 5.88 deaths/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Net migration rate: 3.66 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2022 est.)

note: there has been steady emigration from Wallis and Futuna to New Caledonia
Population distribution: most of the populace lives in the southern part of the main island, in and around the capital of Noumea
Urbanization: urban population: 72.3% of total population (2022)

rate of urbanization: 1.72% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Major urban areas - population: 198,000 NOUMEA (capital) (2018)
Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female

0-14 years: 1.04 male(s)/female

15-24 years: 1.04 male(s)/female

25-54 years: 1.02 male(s)/female

55-64 years: 0.94 male(s)/female

65 years and over: 0.59 male(s)/female

total population: 0.99 male(s)/female (2022 est.)
Infant mortality rate: total: 5 deaths/1,000 live births

male: 5.97 deaths/1,000 live births

female: 3.98 deaths/1,000 live births (2022 est.)
Life expectancy at birth: total population: 78.83 years

male: 74.93 years

female: 82.92 years (2022 est.)
Total fertility rate: 1.86 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Contraceptive prevalence rate: NA
Drinking water source: improved: urban: NA

rural: NA

total: 99.3% of population

unimproved: urban: NA

rural: NA

total: 0.7% of population (2020 est.)
Current Health Expenditure: NA
Physicians density: 2.22 physicians/1,000 population (2009)
Sanitation facility access: improved: urban: NA

rural: NA

total: 100% of population

unimproved: urban: NA

rural: NA

total: 0% of population (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - adult prevalence rate: NA
HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS: NA
HIV/AIDS - deaths: NA
Major infectious diseases: degree of risk: high (2020)

food or waterborne diseases: bacterial diarrhea

vectorborne diseases: malaria
Children under the age of 5 years underweight: NA
Education expenditures: NA
Literacy: definition: age 15 and over can read and write

total population: 96.9%

male: 97.3%

female: 96.5% (2015)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 38.4%

male: 37.1%

female: 40% (2014 est.)

Topic: Environment
Environment - current issues: preservation of coral reefs; prevention of invasive species; limiting erosion caused by nickel mining and forest fires
Air pollutants: carbon dioxide emissions: 5.33 megatons (2016 est.)
Climate: tropical; modified by southeast trade winds; hot, humid
Land use: agricultural land: 10.4% (2018 est.)

arable land: 0.4% (2018 est.)

permanent crops: 0.2% (2018 est.)

permanent pasture: 9.8% (2018 est.)

forest: 45.9% (2018 est.)

other: 43.7% (2018 est.)
Urbanization: urban population: 72.3% of total population (2022)

rate of urbanization: 1.72% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Major infectious diseases: degree of risk: high (2020)

food or waterborne diseases: bacterial diarrhea

vectorborne diseases: malaria
Waste and recycling: municipal solid waste generated annually: 108,157 tons (2016 est.)

Topic: Government
Country name: conventional long form: Territory of New Caledonia and Dependencies

conventional short form: New Caledonia

local long form: Territoire des Nouvelle-Caledonie et Dependances

local short form: Nouvelle-Caledonie

etymology: British explorer Captain James COOK discovered and named New Caledonia in 1774; he used the appellation because the northeast of the island reminded him of Scotland (Caledonia is the Latin designation for Scotland)
Government type: parliamentary democracy (Territorial Congress); an overseas collectivity of France
Dependency status: special collectivity (or a sui generis collectivity) of France since 1998; note - independence referenda took place on 4 November 2018, 4 October 2020, and 12 December 2021 with a majority voting in each case to reject independence in favor of maintaining the status quo; an 18-month transition period is now in place (ending 30 June 2023), during which a referendum on the new status of New Caledonia within France will take place
Capital: name: Noumea

geographic coordinates: 22 16 S, 166 27 E

time difference: UTC+11 (16 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)

etymology: established in 1854 as Port-de-France, the settlement was renamed Noumea in 1866, in order to avoid any confusion with Fort-de-France in Martinique; the New Caledonian language of Ndrumbea (also spelled Ndumbea, Dubea, and Drubea) spoken in the area gave its name to the capital city, Noumea, as well as to the neighboring town (suburb) of Dumbea
Administrative divisions: 3 provinces; Province Iles (Islands Province), Province Nord (North Province), and Province Sud (South Province)
Independence: none (overseas collectivity of France); note - in three independence referenda, on 4 November 2018, 4 October 2020, and 12 December 2021, the majority voted to reject independence in favor of maintaining the status quo; an 18-month transition period is now in place (ending 30 June 2023), during which a referendum on the new status of New Caledonia within France will take place
National holiday: Fete de la Federation, 14 July (1790); note - the local holiday is New Caledonia Day, 24 September (1853)
Constitution: history: 4 October 1958 (French Constitution with changes as reflected in the Noumea Accord of 5 May 1998)

amendments: French constitution amendment procedures apply
Legal system: civil law system based on French civil law
Citizenship: see France
Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal
Executive branch: chief of state: President Emmanuel MACRON (since 14 May 2017); represented by High Commissioner Patrice FAURE (since 6 June 2021)

head of government: President of the Government Louis MAPOU (since 22 July 2021); Vice President Isabelle CHAMPMOREAU (since 22 July 2021)

cabinet: Cabinet elected from and by the Territorial Congress

elections/appointments: French president directly elected by absolute majority popular vote in 2 rounds if needed for a 5-year term (eligible for a second term); high commissioner appointed by the French president on the advice of the French Ministry of Interior; president of New Caledonia elected by Territorial Congress for a 5-year term (no term limits); election last held on 8 July 2022 (next to be held in 2027)

election results: Louis MAPOU elected president by Territorial Congress with 6 votes out of 11
Legislative branch: description: unicameral Territorial Congress or Congrès du Territoire (54 seats; members indirectly selected proportionally by the partisan makeup of the 3 Provincial Assemblies or Assemblés Provinciales; members of the 3 Provincial Assemblies directly elected by proportional representation vote; members serve 5-year terms); note - the Customary Senate is the assembly of the various traditional councils of the Kanaks, the indigenous population, which rules on laws affecting the indigenous population
New Caledonia indirectly elects 2 members to the French Senate by an electoral colleges for a 6-year term with one seat renewed every 3 years and directly elects 2 members to the French National Assembly by absolute majority vote in 2 rounds if needed for a 5-year term

elections:
Territorial Congress - last held on 12 May 2019 (next to be held in May 2024)
French Senate - election last held in September 2019 (next to be held not later than 2021)
French National Assembly - election last held on 11 and 18 June 2017 (next to be held by June 2022)

election results: Territorial Congress - percent of vote by party - N/A; seats by party -Future With Confidence 18, UNI 9, UC 9, CE 7, FLNKS 6, Oceanic Awakening 3, PT 1, LKS 1 (Anti-Independence 28, Pro-Independence 26); composition - NA
representation in French Senate - NA
representation in French National Assembly - NA
French Senate - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - UMP 2

French National Assembly - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - CE 2Territorial Congress - percent of vote by party - N/A; seats by party -Future With Confidence 18, UNI 9, UC 9, CE 7, FLNKS 6, Oceanic Awakening 3, PT 1, LKS 1 (Anti-Independence 28, Pro-Independence 26); composition - NA
representation in French Senate - NA
representation in French National Assembly - NA
Judicial branch: highest courts: Court of Appeal in Noumea or Cour d'Appel; organized into civil, commercial, social, and pre-trial investigation chambers; court bench normally includes the court president and 2 counselors); Administrative Court (number of judges NA); note - final appeals beyond the Court of Appeal are referred to the Court of Cassation or Cour de Cassation (in Paris); final appeals beyond the Administrative Court are referred to the Administrative Court of Appeal (in Paris)

judge selection and term of office: judge appointment and tenure based on France's judicial system

subordinate courts: Courts of First Instance include: civil, juvenile, commercial, labor, police, criminal, assizes, and also a pre-trial investigation chamber; Joint Commerce Tribunal; administrative courts
Political parties and leaders: Build Our Rainbow Nation
Caledonia Together or CE [Philippe GERMAIN]
Caledonian Union or UC [Daniel GOA]
Future Together (l'Avenir Ensemble) [Harold MARTIN]
Kanak Socialist Front for National Liberation or FLNKS (alliance includes PALIKA, UNI, UC, and UPM) [Victor TUTUGORO]
Labor Party (Parti Travailliste) or PT [Louis Kotra UREGEI]
National Union for Independence (Union Nationale pour l'Independance) or UNI
Party of Kanak Liberation (Parti de Liberation Kanak) or PALIKA [Paul NEAOUTYINE]
Socialist Kanak Liberation or LKS [Nidoish NAISSELINE]
The Republicans (formerly The Rally or UMP) [interim leader Thierry SANTA]
Union for Caledonia in France
International organization participation: ITUC (NGOs), PIF (associate member), SPC, UPU, WFTU (NGOs), WMO
Diplomatic representation in the US: none (overseas territory of France)
Diplomatic representation from the US: embassy: none (overseas territory of France)
Flag description: New Caledonia has two official flags; alongside the flag of France, the Kanak (indigenous Melanesian) flag has equal status; the latter consists of three equal horizontal bands of blue (top), red, and green; a large yellow disk - diameter two-thirds the height of the flag - shifted slightly to the hoist side is edged in black and displays a black fleche faitiere symbol, a native rooftop adornment
National symbol(s): fleche faitiere (native rooftop adornment), kagu bird; national colors: gray, red
National anthem: name: "Soyons unis, devenons freres" (Let Us Be United, Let Us Become Brothers)

lyrics/music: Chorale Melodia (a local choir)

note: adopted 2008; contains a mixture of lyrics in both French and Nengone (an indigenous language); as a self-governing territory of France, in addition to the local anthem, "La Marseillaise" is official (see France)
National heritage: total World Heritage Sites: 1 (natural); note - excerpted from the France entry

selected World Heritage Site locales: Lagoons of New Caledonia

Topic: Economy
Economic overview: New Caledonia has 11% of the world's nickel reserves, representing the second largest reserves on the planet. Only a small amount of the land is suitable for cultivation, and food accounts for about 20% of imports. In addition to nickel, substantial financial support from France - equal to more than 15% of GDP - and tourism are keys to the health of the economy.   With the gradual increase in the production of two new nickel plants in 2015, average production of metallurgical goods stood at a record level of 94 thousand tons. However, the sector is exposed to the high volatility of nickel prices, which have been in decline since 2016. In 2017, one of the three major mining firms on the island, Vale, put its operations up for sale, triggering concerns of layoffs ahead of the 2018 independence referendum.New Caledonia has 11% of the world's nickel reserves, representing the second largest reserves on the planet. Only a small amount of the land is suitable for cultivation, and food accounts for about 20% of imports. In addition to nickel, substantial financial support from France - equal to more than 15% of GDP - and tourism are keys to the health of the economy. With the gradual increase in the production of two new nickel plants in 2015, average production of metallurgical goods stood at a record level of 94 thousand tons. However, the sector is exposed to the high volatility of nickel prices, which have been in decline since 2016. In 2017, one of the three major mining firms on the island, Vale, put its operations up for sale, triggering concerns of layoffs ahead of the 2018 independence referendum.
Real GDP (purchasing power parity): $11.11 billion (2017 est.)

$10.89 billion (2016 est.)

$10.77 billion (2015 est.)

note: data are in 2015 dollars
Real GDP growth rate: 2% (2017 est.)

1.1% (2016 est.)

3.2% (2015 est.)
Real GDP per capita: $31,100 (2015 est.)

$32,100 (2014 est.)

$29,800 (2012 est.)
GDP (official exchange rate): $9.77 billion (2017 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices): 1.4% (2017 est.)

0.6% (2016 est.)
GDP - composition, by sector of origin: agriculture: 1.4% (2017 est.)

industry: 26.4% (2017 est.)

services: 72.1% (2017 est.)
GDP - composition, by end use: household consumption: 64.3% (2017 est.)

government consumption: 24% (2017 est.)

investment in fixed capital: 38.4% (2017 est.)

investment in inventories: 0% (2017 est.)

exports of goods and services: 18.7% (2017 est.)

imports of goods and services: -45.5% (2017 est.)
Agricultural products: coconuts, vegetables, maize, fruit, beef, pork, potatoes, bananas, eggs, yams
Industries: nickel mining and smelting
Industrial production growth rate: 3.5% (2017 est.)
Labor force: 119,500 (2016 est.)
Labor force - by occupation: agriculture: 2.7%

industry: 22.4%

services: 74.9% (2010)
Unemployment rate: 14.7% (2014)

14% (2009)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 38.4%

male: 37.1%

female: 40% (2014 est.)
Population below poverty line: 17% (2008)
Household income or consumption by percentage share: lowest 10%: NA

highest 10%: NA
Budget: revenues: 1.995 billion (2015 est.)

expenditures: 1.993 billion (2015 est.)
Budget surplus (+) or deficit (-): 0% (of GDP) (2015 est.)
Public debt: 6.5% of GDP (2015 est.)

6.5% of GDP (2014 est.)
Taxes and other revenues: 20.4% (of GDP) (2015 est.)
Fiscal year: calendar year
Current account balance: -$1.469 billion (2014 est.)

-$1.861 billion (2013 est.)
Exports: $2.207 billion (2014 est.)
Exports - partners: China 59%, South Korea 14%, Japan 11% (2019)
Exports - commodities: iron alloys, nickel, cobalt, carbonates, essential oils (2019)
Imports: $2.715 billion (2015 est.)

$4.4 billion (2014 est.)
Imports - partners: France 43%, Australia 12%, Singapore 12%, China 6% (2019)
Imports - commodities: refined petroleum, aircraft, coal, cars, packaged medicines (2019)
Debt - external: $112 million (31 December 2013 est.)

$79 million (31 December 1998 est.)
Exchange rates: Comptoirs Francais du Pacifique francs (XPF) per US dollar -

110.2 (2017 est.)

107.84 (2016 est.)

107.84 (2015 est.)

89.85 (2013 est.)

90.56 (2012 est.)

Topic: Energy
Electricity access: electrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Electricity - production: 2.945 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - consumption: 2.739 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - exports: 0 kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - imports: 0 kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - installed generating capacity: 996,200 kW (2016 est.)
Electricity - from fossil fuels: 87% of total installed capacity (2016 est.)
Electricity - from nuclear fuels: 0% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from hydroelectric plants: 8% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from other renewable sources: 6% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Crude oil - production: 0 bbl/day (2018 est.)
Crude oil - exports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - imports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - proved reserves: 0 bbl (1 January 2018 est.)
Refined petroleum products - production: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - consumption: 20,000 bbl/day (2016 est.)
Refined petroleum products - exports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - imports: 19,100 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Natural gas - production: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - consumption: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - exports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - imports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - proved reserves: 0 cu m (1 January 2014 est.)

Topic: Communications
Telephones - fixed lines: total subscriptions: 46,000 (2020 est.)

subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 16 (2020 est.)
Telephones - mobile cellular: total subscriptions: 260,277 (2019)

subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 96.02 (2019 est.)
Telecommunication systems: general assessment: New Caledonia has a well-developed telecom sector with 3G and LTE network services; one of the highest smart phone adoption rates in the region; telecommunications sector is dominated by government-owned company with a monopoly on fixed and mobile services, Internet, and broadband access; hub for submarine cables that will increase competition and capacity; importer of broadcasting equipment and computers from France (2020)

domestic: fixed-line nearly 29 per 100 and mobile-cellular telephone subscribership 96 per 100 persons (2019)

international: country code - 687; landing points for the Gondwana-1 and Picot-1 providing connectivity via submarine cables around New Caledonia and to Australia; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Pacific Ocean) (2019)

note: the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a significant impact on production and supply chains globally; since 2020, some aspects of the telecom sector have experienced downturn, particularly in mobile device production; many network operators delayed upgrades to infrastructure; progress towards 5G implementation was postponed or slowed in some countries; consumer spending on telecom services and devices was affected by large-scale job losses and the consequent restriction on disposable incomes; the crucial nature of telecom services as a tool for work and school from home became evident, and received some support from governments
Broadcast media: the publicly owned French Overseas Network (RFO), which operates in France's overseas departments and territories, broadcasts over the RFO Nouvelle-Calédonie TV and radio stations; a small number of privately owned radio stations also broadcast
Internet country code: .nc
Internet users: total: 222,466 (2019 est.)

percent of population: 82% (2019 est.)
Broadband - fixed subscriptions: total: 55,000 (2020 est.)

subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 19 (2020 est.)

Topic: Transportation
National air transport system: number of registered air carriers: 3 (2020) (registered in France)

inventory of registered aircraft operated by air carriers: 15 (registered in France)
Airports: total: 25 (2021)
Airports - with paved runways: total: 12

over 3,047 m: 1

914 to 1,523 m: 10

under 914 m: 1 (2021)
Airports - with unpaved runways: total: 13

914 to 1,523 m: 5

under 914 m: 8 (2021)
Heliports: 8 (2021)
Roadways: total: 5,622 km (2006)
Merchant marine: total: 24

by type: general cargo 5, oil tanker 1, other 18 (2021)
Ports and terminals: major seaport(s): Noumea

Topic: Military and Security
Military and security forces: no regular military forces; France bases land, air, and naval forces on New Caledonia (Forces Armées de la Nouvelle-Calédonie, FANC)
Military - note: defense is the responsibility of France

Topic: Transnational Issues
Disputes - international: Matthew and Hunter Islands east of New Caledonia claimed by France and VanuatuMatthew and Hunter Islands east of New Caledonia claimed by France and Vanuatu


US State Dept Travel Advisory: The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens exercise normal precautions when traveling to Poland. Consult its website via the link below for updates to travel advisories and statements on safety, security, local laws and special circumstances in this country.

https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html
Passport/Visa Requirements: US citizens should make sure their passport will not expire for at least 6 months after they enter the country even if they do not intend to stay that long. No need for blank pages for entry stamp. A visa is not required as long as you do not stay in the country more than 89 days.
US Embassy/Consulate: [48] (22) 504-2000; US Embassy Warsaw, Aleje Ujazdowskie 29/31, 00-540 Warsaw, Poland; acswarsaw@state.gov;

https://pl.usembassy.gov/
Telephone Code: 48
Local Emergency Phone: 112, 999
Vaccinations: See WHO recommendations

http://www.who.int/
Climate: Temperate with cold, cloudy, moderately severe winters with frequent precipitation; mild summers with frequent showers and thundershowers
Currency (Code): Zlotych (PLN)
Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s): 230 V / 50 Hz / plug types(s): C, E

Major Languages: Polish, Silesian
Major Religions: Catholic 85.9% (includes Roman Catholic, Greek Catholic, Armenian Catholic, and Byzantine-Slavic Catholic), Orthodox 1.3%, Protestant 0.4%
Time Difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time); daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March, ends last Sunday in October
Potable Water: Opt for bottled water
International Driving Permit: Suggested
Road Driving Side: Right
Tourist Destinations: Gdansk Old Town; Bialowieza Forest; Wieliczka & Bochnia Royal Salt Mine; Malbork Castle; Slowinski Sand Dunes; Masurian Lakeland; Wawel Castle & Cathedral; Krakow; Warsaw (includes Wilanow Palace, Palace on the Water); Auschwitz
Major Sports: Soccer, motorsports, volleyball, ski jumping, track and field
Cultural Practices: Many households will ask you to remove your shoes upon entry.
Tipping Guidelines: Tipping is expected for good service in restaurants, especially in tourist areas such as Krakow or Warsaw. The norm is to tip around 10-15%. Hotel housekeepers do not expect a tip, but leaving a small amount (10 zlotych), is appreciated. Tipping a tour driver 10-15% is customary.Please visit the following links to find further information about your desired destination.

World Health Organization (WHO) - To learn what vaccines and health precautions to take while visiting your destination.

US State Dept Travel Information - Overall information about foreign travel for US citizens.

To obtain an international driving permit (IDP). Only two organizations in the US issue IDPs:
American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA)

How to get help in an emergency?
Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate, or call one of these numbers:
from the US or Canada - 1-888-407-4747 or from Overseas - +1 202-501-4444

Page last updated: Tuesday, May 10, 2022


Topic: Photos of Indonesia

Topic: Introduction
Background: The archipelago was once largely under the control of Buddhist and Hindu rulers. By around the 7th century, a Buddhist kingdom arose on Sumatra and expanded into Java and the Malay Peninsula until it was conquered in the late 13th century by the Hindu Majapahit Empire from Java. Majapahit (1290-1527) united most of modern-day Indonesia and Malaysia. Traders introduced Islam in the trade ports around the 11th century, and Indonesians gradually adopted Islam over the next 500 years. The Portuguese conquered parts of Indonesia in the 16th century, but they were ousted by the Dutch (except in East Timor), who began colonizing the islands in the early 17th century. It would be the early 20th century before Dutch colonial rule was established across the entirety of what would become the boundaries of the modern Indonesian state.

Japan occupied the islands from 1942 to 1945. Indonesia declared its independence shortly before Japan's surrender, but it required four years of sometimes brutal fighting, intermittent negotiations, and UN mediation before the Netherlands agreed to transfer sovereignty in 1949. A period of sometimes unruly parliamentary democracy ended in 1957 when President SOEKARNO declared martial law and instituted "Guided Democracy." After an abortive coup in 1965 by alleged communist sympathizers, SOEKARNO was gradually eased from power. From 1967 until 1998, President SUHARTO ruled Indonesia with his "New Order" government. After street protests toppled SUHARTO in 1998, free and fair legislative elections took place in 1999. Indonesia is now the world's third most populous democracy, the world's largest archipelagic state, and the world's largest Muslim-majority nation. Current issues include: alleviating poverty, improving education, preventing terrorism, consolidating democracy after four decades of authoritarianism, implementing economic and financial reforms, stemming corruption, reforming the criminal justice system, addressing climate change, and controlling infectious diseases, particularly those of global and regional importance. In 2005, Indonesia reached a historic peace agreement with armed separatists in Aceh. Indonesia continues to face low intensity armed resistance in Papua by the separatist Free Papua Movement.Visit the Definitions and Notes page to view a description of each topic.

Topic: Geography
Location: Southeastern Asia, archipelago between the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean
Geographic coordinates: 5 00 S, 120 00 E
Map references: Southeast Asia
Area: total: 1,904,569 sq km

land: 1,811,569 sq km

water: 93,000 sq km
Area - comparative: slightly less than three times the size of Texas
Land boundaries: total: 2,958 km

border countries (3): Malaysia 1,881 km; Papua New Guinea 824 km; Timor-Leste 253 km
Coastline: 54,716 km
Maritime claims: territorial sea: 12 nm

exclusive economic zone: 200 nm

measured from claimed archipelagic straight baselines
Climate: tropical; hot, humid; more moderate in highlands
Terrain: mostly coastal lowlands; larger islands have interior mountains
Elevation: highest point: Puncak Jaya 4,884 m

lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m

mean elevation: 367 m
Natural resources: petroleum, tin, natural gas, nickel, timber, bauxite, copper, fertile soils, coal, gold, silver
Land use: agricultural land: 31.2% (2018 est.)

arable land: 13% (2018 est.)

permanent crops: 12.1% (2018 est.)

permanent pasture: 6.1% (2018 est.)

forest: 51.7% (2018 est.)

other: 17.1% (2018 est.)
Irrigated land: 67,220 sq km (2012)
Major lakes (area sq km): Fresh water lake(s): Danau Toba - 1,150 sq km
note - located in the caldera of a super volcano that erupted more than 70,000 years ago; it is the largest volcanic lake in the World
Major rivers (by length in km): Sepik (shared with Papua New Guinea [s]) - 1,126 km; Fly (shared with Papua New Guinea [s]) - 1,050 km
note – [s] after country name indicates river source; [m] after country name indicates river mouth
Population distribution: major concentration on the island of Java, which is considered one of the most densely populated places on earth; of the outer islands (those surrounding Java and Bali), Sumatra contains some of the most significant clusters, particularly in the south near the Selat Sunda, and along the northeastern coast near Medan; the cities of Makasar (Sulawesi), Banjarmasin (Kalimantan) are also heavily populated
Natural hazards: occasional floods; severe droughts; tsunamis; earthquakes; volcanoes; forest fires volcanism: Indonesia contains the most volcanoes of any country in the world - some 76 are historically active; significant volcanic activity occurs on Java, Sumatra, the Sunda Islands, Halmahera Island, Sulawesi Island, Sangihe Island, and in the Banda Sea; Merapi (2,968 m), Indonesia's most active volcano and in eruption since 2010, has been deemed a Decade Volcano by the International Association of Volcanology and Chemistry of the Earth's Interior, worthy of study due to its explosive history and close proximity to human populations; on 22 December 2018, a large explosion and flank collapse destroyed most of the 338 m high island of Anak Krakatau (Child of Krakatau) and generated a deadly tsunami inundating portions of western Java and southern Sumatra leaving more than 400 dead; other notable historically active volcanoes include Agung, Awu, Karangetang, Krakatau (Krakatoa), Makian, Raung, Sinabung, and Tambora; see note 2 under "Geography - note"occasional floods; severe droughts; tsunamis; earthquakes; volcanoes; forest firesvolcanism: Indonesia contains the most volcanoes of any country in the world - some 76 are historically active; significant volcanic activity occurs on Java, Sumatra, the Sunda Islands, Halmahera Island, Sulawesi Island, Sangihe Island, and in the Banda Sea; Merapi (2,968 m), Indonesia's most active volcano and in eruption since 2010, has been deemed a Decade Volcano by the International Association of Volcanology and Chemistry of the Earth's Interior, worthy of study due to its explosive history and close proximity to human populations; on 22 December 2018, a large explosion and flank collapse destroyed most of the 338 m high island of Anak Krakatau (Child of Krakatau) and generated a deadly tsunami inundating portions of western Java and southern Sumatra leaving more than 400 dead; other notable historically active volcanoes include Agung, Awu, Karangetang, Krakatau (Krakatoa), Makian, Raung, Sinabung, and Tambora; see note 2 under "Geography - note"
Geography - note: note 1: according to Indonesia's National Coordinating Agency for Survey and Mapping, the total number of islands in the archipelago is 13,466, of which 922 are permanently inhabited (Indonesia is the world's largest country comprised solely of islands); the country straddles the equator and occupies a strategic location astride or along major sea lanes from the Indian Ocean to the Pacific Ocean note 2: Indonesia is one of the countries along the Ring of Fire, a belt of active volcanoes and earthquake epicenters bordering the Pacific Ocean; up to 90% of the world's earthquakes and some 75% of the world's volcanoes occur within the Ring of Fire; 80% of tsunamis, caused by volcanic or seismic events, occur within the "Pacific Ring of Fire" note 3: despite having the fourth largest population in the world, Indonesia is the most heavily forested region on earth after the Amazon

note 4: two major food crops apparently developed on the island of New Guinea: bananas and sugarcanenote 1: according to Indonesia's National Coordinating Agency for Survey and Mapping, the total number of islands in the archipelago is 13,466, of which 922 are permanently inhabited (Indonesia is the world's largest country comprised solely of islands); the country straddles the equator and occupies a strategic location astride or along major sea lanes from the Indian Ocean to the Pacific Oceannote 2: Indonesia is one of the countries along the Ring of Fire, a belt of active volcanoes and earthquake epicenters bordering the Pacific Ocean; up to 90% of the world's earthquakes and some 75% of the world's volcanoes occur within the Ring of Fire; 80% of tsunamis, caused by volcanic or seismic events, occur within the "Pacific Ring of Fire"note 3: despite having the fourth largest population in the world, Indonesia is the most heavily forested region on earth after the Amazon

note 4: two major food crops apparently developed on the island of New Guinea: bananas and sugarcane
Map description: Indonesia map showing major cities and islands of this archipelagic country as well as parts of surrounding countries.  Indonesia map showing major cities and islands of this archipelagic country as well as parts of surrounding countries.

Topic: People and Society
Population: 277,329,163 (2022 est.)
Nationality: noun: Indonesian(s)

adjective: Indonesian
Ethnic groups: Javanese 40.1%, Sundanese 15.5%, Malay 3.7%, Batak 3.6%, Madurese 3%, Betawi 2.9%, Minangkabau 2.7%, Buginese 2.7%, Bantenese 2%, Banjarese 1.7%, Balinese 1.7%, Acehnese 1.4%, Dayak 1.4%, Sasak 1.3%, Chinese 1.2%, other 15% (2010 est.)
Languages: Bahasa Indonesia (official, modified form of Malay), English, Dutch, local dialects (of which the most widely spoken is Javanese); note - more than 700 languages are used in Indonesia

major-language sample(s):
Fakta Dunia, sumber informasi dasar yang sangat diperlukan. (Indonesian)

The World Factbook, the indispensable source for basic information.
Religions: Muslim 87.2%, Protestant 7%, Roman Catholic 2.9%, Hindu 1.7%, other 0.9% (includes Buddhist and Confucian), unspecified 0.4% (2010 est.)
Demographic profile: Indonesia has the world’s fourth-largest population.  It is predominantly Muslim and has the largest Muslim population of any country in the world.  The population is projected to increase to as much as 320 million by 2045.  A government-supported family planning program.  The total fertility rate (TFR) – the average number of births per woman – from 5.6 in the mid-1960s to 2.7 in the mid-1990s.  The success of the program was also due to the social acceptance of family planning, which received backing from influential Muslim leaders and organizations. The fertility decline slowed in the late 1990’s when responsibility for family planning programs shifted to the district level, where the programs were not prioritized.  Since 2012 the national government revitalized the national family planning program, and Indonesia’s TFR has slowly decreased to 2.3 in 2020.  The government may reach its goal of achieving replacement level fertility – 2.1 children per woman – but the large number of women of childbearing age ensures significant population growth for many years.  Indonesia is a source country for labor migrants, a transit country for asylum seekers, and a destination mainly for highly skilled migrant workers.  International labor migration, both legal and illegal, from Indonesia to other parts of Asia (most commonly Malaysia) and the Middle East has taken place for decades because of high unemployment and underemployment, poverty, and low wages domestically.  Increasing numbers of migrant workers are drawn to Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the US.  The majority of Indonesian labor migration is temporary and consists predominantly of low-skilled workers, mainly women working as domestics. Indonesia’s strategic location between Asia and Australia and between the Pacific and Indian Oceans – and its relatively easy accessibility via boat – appeal to asylum seekers.  It is also an attractive transit location because of its easy entry requirements and the ability to continue on to Australia.  Recent asylum seekers have come from Afghanistan, Burma (Rohingyas), Iraq, Somalia, and Sri Lanka.  Since 2013, when Australia tightening its immigration policy, thousands of migrants and asylum seekers have been stranded in Indonesia, where they live in precarious conditions and receive only limited support from international organizations.  The situation for refugees in Indonesia has also worsened because Australia and the US, which had resettled the majority of refugees in Indonesia, have significantly lowered their intake.Indonesia has the world’s fourth-largest population.  It is predominantly Muslim and has the largest Muslim population of any country in the world.  The population is projected to increase to as much as 320 million by 2045.  A government-supported family planning program.  The total fertility rate (TFR) – the average number of births per woman – from 5.6 in the mid-1960s to 2.7 in the mid-1990s.  The success of the program was also due to the social acceptance of family planning, which received backing from influential Muslim leaders and organizations.The fertility decline slowed in the late 1990’s when responsibility for family planning programs shifted to the district level, where the programs were not prioritized.  Since 2012 the national government revitalized the national family planning program, and Indonesia’s TFR has slowly decreased to 2.3 in 2020.  The government may reach its goal of achieving replacement level fertility – 2.1 children per woman – but the large number of women of childbearing age ensures significant population growth for many years. Indonesia is a source country for labor migrants, a transit country for asylum seekers, and a destination mainly for highly skilled migrant workers.  International labor migration, both legal and illegal, from Indonesia to other parts of Asia (most commonly Malaysia) and the Middle East has taken place for decades because of high unemployment and underemployment, poverty, and low wages domestically.  Increasing numbers of migrant workers are drawn to Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the US.  The majority of Indonesian labor migration is temporary and consists predominantly of low-skilled workers, mainly women working as domestics.Indonesia’s strategic location between Asia and Australia and between the Pacific and Indian Oceans – and its relatively easy accessibility via boat – appeal to asylum seekers.  It is also an attractive transit location because of its easy entry requirements and the ability to continue on to Australia.  Recent asylum seekers have come from Afghanistan, Burma (Rohingyas), Iraq, Somalia, and Sri Lanka.  Since 2013, when Australia tightening its immigration policy, thousands of migrants and asylum seekers have been stranded in Indonesia, where they live in precarious conditions and receive only limited support from international organizations.  The situation for refugees in Indonesia has also worsened because Australia and the US, which had resettled the majority of refugees in Indonesia, have significantly lowered their intake.
Age structure: 0-14 years: 23.87% (male 32,473,246/female 31,264,034)

15-24 years: 16.76% (male 22,786,920/female 21,960,130)

25-54 years: 42.56% (male 58,249,570/female 55,409,579)

55-64 years: 8.99% (male 11,033,838/female 12,968,005)

65 years and over: 7.82% (2020 est.) (male 9,099,773/female 11,781,271)
Dependency ratios: total dependency ratio: 47.5

youth dependency ratio: 38.3

elderly dependency ratio: 9.2

potential support ratio: 10.8 (2020 est.)
Median age: total: 31.1 years

male: 30.5 years

female: 31.8 years (2020 est.)
Population growth rate: 0.79% (2022 est.)
Birth rate: 15.32 births/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Death rate: 6.75 deaths/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Net migration rate: -0.71 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Population distribution: major concentration on the island of Java, which is considered one of the most densely populated places on earth; of the outer islands (those surrounding Java and Bali), Sumatra contains some of the most significant clusters, particularly in the south near the Selat Sunda, and along the northeastern coast near Medan; the cities of Makasar (Sulawesi), Banjarmasin (Kalimantan) are also heavily populated
Urbanization: urban population: 57.9% of total population (2022)

rate of urbanization: 1.99% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Major urban areas - population: 11.075 million JAKARTA (capital), 3.622 million Bekasi, 3.005 million Surabaya, 2.942 million Depok, 2.638 million Bandung, 2.456 million Tangerang (2022)
Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female

0-14 years: 1.05 male(s)/female

15-24 years: 1.05 male(s)/female

25-54 years: 0.99 male(s)/female

55-64 years: 0.98 male(s)/female

65 years and over: 0.66 male(s)/female

total population: 1 male(s)/female (2022 est.)
Mother's mean age at first birth: 22.4 years (2017 est.)

note: median age at first birth among women 25-49
Maternal mortality ratio: 177 deaths/100,000 live births (2017 est.)
Infant mortality rate: total: 19.73 deaths/1,000 live births

male: 22.15 deaths/1,000 live births

female: 17.18 deaths/1,000 live births (2022 est.)
Life expectancy at birth: total population: 73.08 years

male: 70.86 years

female: 75.4 years (2022 est.)
Total fertility rate: 2.01 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Contraceptive prevalence rate: 55.5% (2018)
Drinking water source: improved: urban: 98.2% of population

rural: 86.8% of population

total: 93.3% of population

unimproved: urban: 1.8% of population

rural: 13.2% of population

total: 6.7% of population (2020 est.)
Current Health Expenditure: 2.9% (2019)
Physicians density: 0.43 physicians/1,000 population (2018)
Hospital bed density: 1 beds/1,000 population (2017)
Sanitation facility access: improved: urban: 97.2% of population

rural: 86.5% of population

total: 92.5% of population

unimproved: urban: 2.8% of population

rural: 13.5% of population

total: 7.5% of population (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - adult prevalence rate: 0.4% (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS: 540,000 (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - deaths: 24,000 (2020 est.)
Major infectious diseases: degree of risk: very high (2020)

food or waterborne diseases: bacterial diarrhea, hepatitis A, and typhoid fever

vectorborne diseases: dengue fever and malaria

note: a new coronavirus is causing sustained community spread of respiratory illness (COVID-19) in Indonesia; as of 30 March 2022, Indonesia has reported a total of 6,005,646 cases of COVID-19 or 2,195.66 cumulative cases of COVID-19 per 100,000 population with a total of 154,882 cumulative deaths or a rate 56.62 cumulative deaths per 100,000 population; as of 29 March 2022, 71.01% of the population has received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine
Obesity - adult prevalence rate: 6.9% (2016)
Children under the age of 5 years underweight: 17.7% (2018)
Child marriage: women married by age 15: 2% (2017)

women married by age 18: 16.3% (2017 est.)
Education expenditures: 2.8% of GDP (2019)
Literacy: definition: age 15 and over can read and write

total population: 96%

male: 97.4%

female: 94.6% (2020)
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education): total: 14 years

male: 14 years

female: 14 years (2018)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 14.8%

male: 15.1%

female: 14.3% (2020 est.)
People - note: Indonesia is the fourth most populous nation in the World after China, India, and the United States; more than half of the Indonesian population - roughly 150 million people or 55% - live on the island of Java (about the size of California) making it the most crowded island on earth

Topic: Environment
Environment - current issues: large-scale deforestation (much of it illegal) and related wildfires cause heavy smog; over-exploitation of marine resources; environmental problems associated with rapid urbanization and economic development, including air pollution, traffic congestion, garbage management, and reliable water and waste water services; water pollution from industrial wastes, sewage
Environment - international agreements: party to: Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban, Desertification, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 2006, Wetlands

signed, but not ratified: Marine Life Conservation
Air pollutants: particulate matter emissions: 15.58 micrograms per cubic meter (2016 est.)

carbon dioxide emissions: 563.32 megatons (2016 est.)

methane emissions: 244.5 megatons (2020 est.)
Climate: tropical; hot, humid; more moderate in highlands
Land use: agricultural land: 31.2% (2018 est.)

arable land: 13% (2018 est.)

permanent crops: 12.1% (2018 est.)

permanent pasture: 6.1% (2018 est.)

forest: 51.7% (2018 est.)

other: 17.1% (2018 est.)
Urbanization: urban population: 57.9% of total population (2022)

rate of urbanization: 1.99% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Revenue from forest resources: forest revenues: 0.39% of GDP (2018 est.)
Revenue from coal: coal revenues: 1.06% of GDP (2018 est.)
Major infectious diseases: degree of risk: very high (2020)

food or waterborne diseases: bacterial diarrhea, hepatitis A, and typhoid fever

vectorborne diseases: dengue fever and malaria

note: a new coronavirus is causing sustained community spread of respiratory illness (COVID-19) in Indonesia; as of 30 March 2022, Indonesia has reported a total of 6,005,646 cases of COVID-19 or 2,195.66 cumulative cases of COVID-19 per 100,000 population with a total of 154,882 cumulative deaths or a rate 56.62 cumulative deaths per 100,000 population; as of 29 March 2022, 71.01% of the population has received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine
Waste and recycling: municipal solid waste generated annually: 65.2 million tons (2016 est.)

municipal solid waste recycled annually: 4.564 million tons (2016 est.)

percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 7% (2016 est.)
Major lakes (area sq km): Fresh water lake(s): Danau Toba - 1,150 sq km
note - located in the caldera of a super volcano that erupted more than 70,000 years ago; it is the largest volcanic lake in the World
Major rivers (by length in km): Sepik (shared with Papua New Guinea [s]) - 1,126 km; Fly (shared with Papua New Guinea [s]) - 1,050 km
note – [s] after country name indicates river source; [m] after country name indicates river mouth
Total water withdrawal: municipal: 23.8 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)

industrial: 9.135 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)

agricultural: 189.7 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
Total renewable water resources: 2,018,700,000,000 cubic meters (2017 est.)

Topic: Government
Country name: conventional long form: Republic of Indonesia

conventional short form: Indonesia

local long form: Republik Indonesia

local short form: Indonesia

former: Netherlands East Indies (Dutch East Indies), Netherlands New Guinea

etymology: the name is an 18th-century construct of two Greek words, "Indos" (India) and "nesoi" (islands), meaning "Indian islands"
Government type: presidential republic
Capital: name: Jakarta; note - Indonesian lawmakers on 18 January 2022 approved the relocation of the country’s capital from Jakarta to a site in East Kalimantan, a jungle area of Borneo; the move to Nusantara, the name of the new capital, will take several years

geographic coordinates: 6 10 S, 106 49 E

time difference: UTC+7 (12 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)

time zone note: Indonesia has three time zones

etymology: "Jakarta" derives from the Sanscrit "Jayakarta" meaning "victorious city" and refers to a successful defeat and expulsion of the Portuguese in 1527; previously the port had been named "Sunda Kelapa"
Administrative divisions: 31 provinces (provinsi-provinsi, singular - provinsi), 1 autonomous province*, 1 special region** (daerah-daerah istimewa, singular - daerah istimewa), and 1 national capital district*** (daerah khusus ibukota); Aceh*, Bali, Banten, Bengkulu, Gorontalo, Jakarta***, Jambi, Jawa Barat (West Java), Jawa Tengah (Central Java), Jawa Timur (East Java), Kalimantan Barat (West Kalimantan), Kalimantan Selatan (South Kalimantan), Kalimantan Tengah (Central Kalimantan), Kalimantan Timur (East Kalimantan), Kalimantan Utara (North Kalimantan), Kepulauan Bangka Belitung (Bangka Belitung Islands), Kepulauan Riau (Riau Islands), Lampung, Maluku, Maluku Utara (North Maluku), Nusa Tenggara Barat (West Nusa Tenggara), Nusa Tenggara Timur (East Nusa Tenggara), Papua, Papua Barat (West Papua), Riau, Sulawesi Barat (West Sulawesi), Sulawesi Selatan (South Sulawesi), Sulawesi Tengah (Central Sulawesi), Sulawesi Tenggara (Southeast Sulawesi), Sulawesi Utara (North Sulawesi), Sumatera Barat (West Sumatra), Sumatera Selatan (South Sumatra), Sumatera Utara (North Sumatra), Yogyakarta**

note: following the implementation of decentralization beginning on 1 January 2001, regencies and municipalities have become the key administrative units responsible for providing most government services
Independence: 17 August 1945 (declared independence from the Netherlands)
National holiday: Independence Day, 17 August (1945)
Constitution: history: drafted July to August 1945, effective 18 August 1945, abrogated by 1949 and 1950 constitutions; 1945 constitution restored 5 July 1959

amendments: proposed by the People’s Consultative Assembly, with at least two thirds of its members present; passage requires simple majority vote by the Assembly membership; constitutional articles on the unitary form of the state cannot be amended; amended several times, last in 2002
Legal system: civil law system based on the Roman-Dutch model and influenced by customary law
International law organization participation: has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; non-party state to the ICCt
Citizenship: citizenship by birth: no

citizenship by descent only: at least one parent must be a citizen of Indonesia

dual citizenship recognized: no

residency requirement for naturalization: 5 continuous years
Suffrage: 17 years of age; universal and married persons regardless of age
Executive branch: chief of state: President Joko WIDODO (since 20 October 2014, reelected 17 April 2019, inauguration 19 October 2019); Vice President Ma'ruf AMIN (since 20 October 2019); note - the president is both chief of state and head of government

head of government: President Joko WIDODO (since 20 October 2014); Vice President Ma'ruf AMIN (since 20 October 2019)

cabinet: Cabinet appointed by the president

elections/appointments: president and vice president directly elected by absolute majority popular vote for a 5-year term (eligible for a second term); election last held on 17 April 2019 (next election 2024)

election results: Joko WIDODO elected president; percent of vote - Joko WIDODO (PDI-P) 55.5%, PRABOWO Subianto Djojohadikusumo (GERINDRA) 44.5%
Legislative branch: description: bicameral People's Consultative Assembly or Majelis Permusyawaratan Rakyat (MPR) consists of:
Regional Representative Council or Dewan Perwakilan Daerah (136 seats; non-partisan members directly elected in multi-seat constituencies - 4 each from the country's 34 electoral districts - by proportional representation vote to serve 5-year terms); note - the Regional Representative Council has no legislative authority
House of Representatives or Dewan Perwakilan Rakyat (DPR) (575 seats; members directly elected in multi-seat constituencies by single non-transferable vote to serve 5-year terms) (2019)

elections: Regional Representative Council - last held on 17 April 2019 (next to be held 2024)
House of Representatives - last held on 17 April 2019 (next to be held 2024) (2019)

election results: Regional Representative Council - all seats elected on a non-partisan basis; composition - men 102, women 34, percent of women 25%
House of Representatives - percent of vote by party - PDI-P 19.3%, Gerindra 12.6%, Golkar 12.3%,  PKB 9.7%, Nasdem 9.1%, PKS 8.2%, PD 7.8%, PAN 6.8%, PPP 4.5%, other 9.6%; seats by party - PDI-P 128, Golkar 85, Gerindra 78, Nasdem 59, PKB 58, PD 54, PKS 50, PAN 44, PPP 19; composition - men 449, women 126, percent of women 21.9%; total People's Consultative Assembly percent of women 22.5% (2019)
Judicial branch: highest courts: Supreme Court or Mahkamah Agung (51 judges divided into 8 chambers); Constitutional Court or Mahkamah Konstitusi (consists of 9 judges)

judge selection and term of office: Supreme Court judges nominated by Judicial Commission, appointed by president with concurrence of parliament; judges serve until retirement at age 65; Constitutional Court judges - 3 nominated by president, 3 by Supreme Court, and 3 by parliament; judges appointed by the president; judges serve until mandatory retirement at age 70

subordinate courts: High Courts of Appeal, district courts, religious courts
Political parties and leaders: Berkarya Party [Muchdi PURWOPRANJONO]
Crescent Star Party or PBB [Yusril Ihza MAHENDRA]
Democrat Party or PD [Agus Harimurti YUDHOYONO]
Functional Groups Party or GOLKAR [Airlangga HARTARTO]
Great Indonesia Movement Party or GERINDRA [PRABOWO Subianto Djojohadikusumo]
Garuda Party [Ahmad Ridha SABANA]
Indonesia Democratic Party-Struggle or PDI-P [MEGAWATI Sukarnoputri]
Indonesian Justice and Unity Party or PKPI [Yussuf SOLICHIEN]
Indonesian Solidarity Party or PSI [GIRING GANESHA]
National Awakening Party or PKB [Muhaiman ISKANDAR]
National Democratic Party or NasDem [Surya PALOH]
National Mandate Party or PAN [Zulkifli HASAN]
People's Conscience Party or Hanura [Oesman Sapta ODANG]
Perindo Party [Hary TANOESOEDIBJO]
Prosperous Justice Party or PKS [Ahmad SYAIKHU]
United Development Party or PPP [Suharso MONOARFA] (2021)
International organization participation: ADB, APEC, ARF, ASEAN, BIS, CD, CICA (observer), CP, D-8, EAS, EITI (compliant country), FAO, G-11, G-15, G-20, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC (national committees), ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, IHO, ILO, IMF, IMO, IMSO, Interpol, IOC, IOM (observer), IORA, IPU, ISO, ITSO, ITU, ITUC (NGOs), MIGA, MINURSO, MINUSTAH, MONUSCO, MSG (associate member), NAM, OECD (enhanced engagement), OIC, OPCW, PIF (partner), UN, UNAMID, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNIFIL, UNISFA, UNMIL, UNWTO, UPU, WCO, WFTU (NGOs), WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in the US: chief of mission: Ambassador Rosan ROESLANI (since 25 October 2021)

chancery: 2020 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036

telephone: [1] (202) 775-5200

FAX: [1] (202) 775-5365

email address and website:
http://www.embassyofindonesia.org/

consulate(s) general: Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco
Diplomatic representation from the US: chief of mission: Ambassador Sung Y. KIM (since 21 October 2020)

embassy: Jl. Medan Merdeka Selatan No. 3-5, Jakarta 10110

mailing address: 8200 Jakarta Place, Washington DC  8200

telephone: [62] (21) 5083-1000 (2020)

FAX: [62] (21) 385-7189 (2018)

email address and website:
jakartaacs@state.gov

https://id.usembassy.gov/

consulate(s) general: Surabaya

consulate(s): MedanAmbassador Sung Y. KIM (since 21 October 2020)
Flag description: two equal horizontal bands of red (top) and white; the colors derive from the banner of the Majapahit Empire of the 13th-15th centuries; red symbolizes courage, white represents purity

note: similar to the flag of Monaco, which is shorter; also similar to the flag of Poland, which is white (top) and red
National symbol(s): garuda (mythical bird); national colors: red, white
National anthem: name: "Indonesia Raya" (Great Indonesia)

lyrics/music: Wage Rudolf SOEPRATMAN

note: adopted 1945
National heritage: total World Heritage Sites: 9 (5 cultural, 4 natural)

selected World Heritage Site locales: Borobudur Temple Compounds (c), Komodo National Park (n), Prambanan Temple Compounds (c), Ujung Kulon National Park (n), Sangiran Early Man Site (c), Lorentz National Park (n), Tropical Rainforest Heritage of Sumatra (n), Cultural Landscape of Bali Province (c), Ombilin Coal Mining Heritage of Sawahlunto (c)

Topic: Economy
Economic overview: Indonesia, the largest economy in Southeast Asia, has seen a slowdown in growth since 2012, mostly due to the end of the commodities export boom. During the global financial crisis, Indonesia outperformed its regional neighbors and joined China and India as the only G20 members posting growth. Indonesia’s annual budget deficit is capped at 3% of GDP, and the Government of Indonesia lowered its debt-to-GDP ratio from a peak of 100% shortly after the Asian financial crisis in 1999 to 34% today. In May 2017 Standard & Poor’s became the last major ratings agency to upgrade Indonesia’s sovereign credit rating to investment grade.   Poverty and unemployment, inadequate infrastructure, corruption, a complex regulatory environment, and unequal resource distribution among its regions are still part of Indonesia’s economic landscape. President Joko WIDODO - elected in July 2014 – seeks to develop Indonesia’s maritime resources and pursue other infrastructure development, including significantly increasing its electrical power generation capacity. Fuel subsidies were significantly reduced in early 2015, a move which has helped the government redirect its spending to development priorities. Indonesia, with the nine other ASEAN members, will continue to move towards participation in the ASEAN Economic Community, though full implementation of economic integration has not yet materialized.Indonesia, the largest economy in Southeast Asia, has seen a slowdown in growth since 2012, mostly due to the end of the commodities export boom. During the global financial crisis, Indonesia outperformed its regional neighbors and joined China and India as the only G20 members posting growth. Indonesia’s annual budget deficit is capped at 3% of GDP, and the Government of Indonesia lowered its debt-to-GDP ratio from a peak of 100% shortly after the Asian financial crisis in 1999 to 34% today. In May 2017 Standard & Poor’s became the last major ratings agency to upgrade Indonesia’s sovereign credit rating to investment grade. Poverty and unemployment, inadequate infrastructure, corruption, a complex regulatory environment, and unequal resource distribution among its regions are still part of Indonesia’s economic landscape. President Joko WIDODO - elected in July 2014 – seeks to develop Indonesia’s maritime resources and pursue other infrastructure development, including significantly increasing its electrical power generation capacity. Fuel subsidies were significantly reduced in early 2015, a move which has helped the government redirect its spending to development priorities. Indonesia, with the nine other ASEAN members, will continue to move towards participation in the ASEAN Economic Community, though full implementation of economic integration has not yet materialized.
Real GDP (purchasing power parity): $3,130,470,000,000 (2020 est.)

$3,196,620,000,000 (2019 est.)

$3,043,880,000,000 (2018 est.)

note: data are in 2017 dollars
Real GDP growth rate: 5.03% (2019 est.)

5.17% (2018 est.)

5.07% (2017 est.)
Real GDP per capita: $11,400 (2020 est.)

$11,800 (2019 est.)

$11,400 (2018 est.)

note: data are in 2017 dollars
GDP (official exchange rate): $1,119,720,000,000 (2019 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices): 2.8% (2019 est.)

3.2% (2018 est.)

3.8% (2017 est.)
Credit ratings: Fitch rating: BBB (2017)

Moody's rating: Baa2 (2018)

Standard & Poors rating: BBB (2019)
GDP - composition, by sector of origin: agriculture: 13.7% (2017 est.)

industry: 41% (2017 est.)

services: 45.4% (2017 est.)
GDP - composition, by end use: household consumption: 57.3% (2017 est.)

government consumption: 9.1% (2017 est.)

investment in fixed capital: 32.1% (2017 est.)

investment in inventories: 0.3% (2017 est.)

exports of goods and services: 20.4% (2017 est.)

imports of goods and services: -19.2% (2017 est.)
Agricultural products: oil palm fruit, rice, maize, sugar cane, coconuts, cassava, bananas, eggs, poultry, rubber
Industries: petroleum and natural gas, textiles, automotive, electrical appliances, apparel, footwear, mining, cement, medical instruments and appliances, handicrafts, chemical fertilizers, plywood, rubber, processed food, jewelry, and tourism
Industrial production growth rate: 4.1% (2017 est.)
Labor force: 129.366 million (2019 est.)
Labor force - by occupation: agriculture: 32%

industry: 21%

services: 47% (2016 est.)
Unemployment rate: 5.31% (2018 est.)

5.4% (2017 est.)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 14.8%

male: 15.1%

female: 14.3% (2020 est.)
Population below poverty line: 9.4% (2019 est.)
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income: 37.8 (2018 est.)

39.4 (2005)
Household income or consumption by percentage share: lowest 10%: 3.4%

highest 10%: 28.2% (2010)
Budget: revenues: 131.7 billion (2017 est.)

expenditures: 159.6 billion (2017 est.)
Budget surplus (+) or deficit (-): -2.7% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Public debt: 28.8% of GDP (2017 est.)

28.3% of GDP (2016 est.)
Taxes and other revenues: 13% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Fiscal year: calendar year
Current account balance: -$30.359 billion (2019 est.)

-$30.633 billion (2018 est.)
Exports: $178.26 billion (2020 est.) note: data are in current year dollars

$200.1 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars

$211.93 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Exports - partners: China 15%, United States 10%, Japan 9%, Singapore 8%, India 7%, Malaysia 5% (2019)
Exports - commodities: coal, palm oil, natural gas, cars, gold (2019)
Imports: $159.64 billion (2020 est.) note: data are in current year dollars

$204.23 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars

$218.65 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Imports - partners: China 27%, Singapore 12%, Japan 8%, Thailand 5%, United States 5%, South Korea 5%, Malaysia 5% (2019)
Imports - commodities: refined petroleum, crude petroleum, vehicle parts, telephones, natural gas (2019)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold: $130.2 billion (31 December 2017 est.)
Debt - external: $393.252 billion (2019 est.)

$360.945 billion (2018 est.)
Exchange rates: Indonesian rupiah (IDR) per US dollar -

14,110 (2020 est.)

14,015 (2019 est.)

14,470 (2018 est.)

13,389.4 (2014 est.)

11,865.2 (2013 est.)

Topic: Energy
Electricity access: electrification - total population: 99% (2019)

electrification - urban areas: 100% (2019)

electrification - rural areas: 99% (2019)
Electricity - production: 235.4 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - consumption: 213.4 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - exports: 0 kWh (2017 est.)
Electricity - imports: 693 million kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - installed generating capacity: 61.43 million kW (2016 est.)
Electricity - from fossil fuels: 85% of total installed capacity (2016 est.)
Electricity - from nuclear fuels: 0% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from hydroelectric plants: 9% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from other renewable sources: 6% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Crude oil - production: 772,000 bbl/day (2018 est.)
Crude oil - exports: 302,300 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - imports: 498,500 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - proved reserves: 3.31 billion bbl (1 January 2018 est.)
Refined petroleum products - production: 950,000 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - consumption: 1.601 million bbl/day (2016 est.)
Refined petroleum products - exports: 79,930 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - imports: 591,500 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Natural gas - production: 72.09 billion cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - consumption: 42.32 billion cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - exports: 29.78 billion cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - imports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - proved reserves: 2.866 trillion cu m (1 January 2018 est.)

Topic: Communications
Telephones - fixed lines: total subscriptions: 9,662,135 (2020 est.)

subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 4 (2020 est.)
Telephones - mobile cellular: total subscriptions: 355,620,388 (2020 est.)

subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 130 (2020 est.)
Telecommunication systems: general assessment: Indonesia’s telecom sector is based on 3G/LTE mobile infrastructure and inadequate fixed-line capacity; large population and disbursed island geography make upgrades difficult; market is attracting foreign investment, especially in data center and cloud based services; tests of 5G challenged by lack of spectrum; satellite improvements in 2020 (2020)

domestic: fixed-line subscribership roughly 3 per 100 and mobile-cellular 130 per 100 persons; coverage provided by existing network has been expanded by use of over 200,000 telephone kiosks many located in remote areas; mobile-cellular subscribership growing rapidly (2020)

international: country code - 62; landing points for the SEA-ME-WE-3 & 5, DAMAI, JASUKA, BDM, Dumai-Melaka Cable System, IGG, JIBA, Link 1, 3, 4,  & 5, PGASCOM, B3J2, Tanjung Pandam-Sungai Kakap Cable System, JAKABARE, JAYABAYA, INDIGO-West, Matrix Cable System, ASC, SJJK, Jaka2LaDeMa, S-U-B Cable System, JBCS, MKCS, BALOK, Palapa Ring East, West and Middle, SMPCS Packet-1 and 2, LTCS, TSCS, SEA-US and Kamal Domestic Submarine Cable System, 35 submarine cable networks that provide links throughout Asia, the Middle East, Australia, Southeast Asia, Africa and Europe; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Indian Ocean and 1 Pacific Ocean) (2019)

note: the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a significant impact on production and supply chains globally; since 2020, some aspects of the telecom sector have experienced downturn, particularly in mobile device production; many network operators delayed upgrades to infrastructure; progress towards 5G implementation was postponed or slowed in some countries; consumer spending on telecom services and devices was affected by large-scale job losses and the consequent restriction on disposable incomes; the crucial nature of telecom services as a tool for work and school from home became evident, and received some support from governments
Broadcast media: mixture of about a dozen national TV networks - 1 public broadcaster, the remainder private broadcasters - each with multiple transmitters; more than 100 local TV stations; widespread use of satellite and cable TV systems; public radio broadcaster operates 6 national networks, as well as regional and local stations; overall, more than 700 radio stations with more than 650 privately operated (2019)
Internet country code: .id
Internet users: total: 147,702,755 (2020 est.)

percent of population: 54% (2020 est.)
Broadband - fixed subscriptions: total: 11,722,218 (2020 est.)

subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 4 (2020 est.)

Topic: Transportation
National air transport system: number of registered air carriers: 25 (2020)

inventory of registered aircraft operated by air carriers: 611

annual passenger traffic on registered air carriers: 115,154,100 (2018)

annual freight traffic on registered air carriers: 1,131,910,000 (2018) mt-km
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix: PK
Airports: total: 673 (2021)
Airports - with paved runways: total: 186

over 3,047 m: 5

2,438 to 3,047 m: 21

1,524 to 2,437 m: 51

914 to 1,523 m: 72

under 914 m: 37 (2021)
Airports - with unpaved runways: total: 487

1,524 to 2,437 m: 4

914 to 1,523 m: 23

under 914 m: 460 (2021)
Heliports: 76 (2021)
Pipelines: 1064 km condensate, 150 km condensate/gas, 11702 km gas, 119 km liquid petroleum gas, 7767 km oil, 77 km oil/gas/water, 728 km refined products, 53 km unknown, 44 km water (2013)
Railways: total: 8,159 km (2014)

narrow gauge: 8,159 km (2014) 1.067-m gauge (565 km electrified)

note: 4,816 km operational
Roadways: total: 496,607 km (2011)

paved: 283,102 km (2011)

unpaved: 213,505 km (2011)
Waterways: 21,579 km (2011)
Merchant marine: total: 10,427

by type: bulk carrier 148, container ship 226, general cargo 2,238, oil tanker 676, other 7,139 (2021)
Ports and terminals: major seaport(s): Banjarmasin, Belawan, Kotabaru, Krueg Geukueh, Palembang, Panjang, Sungai Pakning, Tanjung Perak, Tanjung Priok

container port(s) (TEUs): Tanjung Perak (3,900,000), Tanjung Priok (7,600,000) (2019)

LNG terminal(s) (export): Bontang, Tangguh

LNG terminal(s) (import): Arun, Lampung, West Java

Topic: Military and Security
Military and security forces: Indonesian National Armed Forces (Tentara Nasional Indonesia, TNI): Army (TNI-Angkatan Darat (TNI-AD)), Navy (TNI-Angkatan Laut (TNI-AL), includes Marine Corps (Korps Marinir, KorMar), Naval Aviation Center (PUSPENERBAL)), Air Force (TNI-Angkatan Udara (TNI-AU)), National Air Defense Command (Komando Pertahanan Udara Nasional (Kohanudnas)), Armed Forces Special Operations Command (Kopassus), Strategic Reserve Command (Kostrad), National Army Reserve Component (Komcad) (2022)

note(s) - in 2014, Indonesia created a Maritime Security Agency (Bakamla) to coordinate the actions of all maritime security agencies, including the Navy, the Indonesian Sea and Coast Guard (Kesatuan Penjagaan Laut dan Pantai, KPLP), the Water Police (Polair), Customs (Bea Cukai), and Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries

the Indonesian National Police includes a paramilitary Mobile Brigade Corps (BRIMOB); following the Bali terror bombing in 2002, the National Police formed a special counter-terrorism force called Detachment 88 (Densus or Detasemen Khusus 88 Antiteror)
Military expenditures: 0.8% of GDP (2021 est.)

0.8% of GDP (2020)

0.8% of GDP (2019) (approximately $15.5 billion)

0.7% of GDP (2018) (approximately $14.5 billion)

0.9% of GDP (2017) (approximately $15.5 billion)
Military and security service personnel strengths: approximately, 400,000 active duty troops (300,000 Army; 60,000 Navy, including about 20,000 marines; 30,000 Air Force) (2021)
Military equipment inventories and acquisitions: the Indonesian military inventory comes from a wide variety of sources; since 2010, the top suppliers included China, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Russia, South Korea, the UK, and the US; the TNI has been engaged in a long-term modernization program since 2010 with uneven success; Indonesia has a growing defense industry fueled by technology transfers and cooperation agreements with several countries; in 2019, the Indonesian Government publicly said that growing its domestic defense industry is a national priority over the next 5-10 years (2022)
Military service age and obligation: 18-45 years of age for voluntary military service, with selective conscription authorized (males, age 18), but not utilized; 2-year service obligation, with reserve obligation to age 45 (officers) (2021)
Military deployments: 225 Central African Republic (MINUSCA); 1,030 Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO); 1,250 Lebanon (UNIFIL) (Jan 2022)
Military - note: as of 2022, Indonesian military and police forces were engaged in counter-insurgency operations in Papua against the West Papua Liberation Army, the military wing of the Free Papua Organization, which has been fighting a low-level insurgency since the 1960s when Indonesia annexed the former Dutch colony; since 2019, there has been an increase in militant activity in Papua and a larger Indonesian military presence; Papua was formally incorporated into Indonesia in 1969; in addition, the Indonesian military has been assisting police in Sulawesi in countering the Mujahideen Indonesia Timur (MIT; aka East Indonesia Mujahideen), a local Islamic State (ISIS)-affiliated terrorist group

Indonesia is not a formal claimant in the South China Sea, although some of its waters lie within China's “nine-dash line” maritime claims, resulting in some stand offs in recent years; since 2016, the Indonesian military has bolstered its presence on Great Natuna Island (aka Pulau Natuna Besar), the main island of the Middle Natuna Archipelago, which is part of the Riau Islands Province, held military exercises in surrounding waters, and increased security cooperation (2022)
Maritime threats: the International Maritime Bureau continues to report the territorial and offshore waters in the Strait of Malacca and South China Sea as high risk for piracy and armed robbery against ships; the number of attacks decreased from 26 incidents in 2020 to nine in 2021 due to aggressive maritime patrolling by regional authorities; vessels continue to be boarded while anchored or berthed at Indonesian ports with seven vessels attacked; hijacked vessels are often disguised and cargo diverted to ports in East Asia

Topic: Terrorism
Terrorist group(s): Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (aka Jemaah Anshorut Daulah); Jemaah Islamiyah

note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T

Topic: Transnational Issues
Disputes - international: Indonesia has a stated foreign policy objective of establishing stable fixed land and maritime boundaries with all of its neighbors; three stretches of land borders with Timor-Leste have yet to be delimited, two of which are in the Oecussi exclave area, and no maritime or Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) boundaries have been established between the countries; all borders between Indonesia and Australia have been agreed upon bilaterally, but a 1997 treaty that would settle the last of their maritime and EEZ boundary has yet to be ratified by Indonesia's legislature; Indonesian groups challenge Australia's claim to Ashmore Reef; Australia has closed parts of the Ashmore and Cartier Reserve to Indonesian traditional fishing and placed restrictions on certain catches; land and maritime negotiations with Malaysia are ongoing, and disputed areas include the controversial Tanjung Datu and Camar Wulan border area in Borneo and the maritime boundary in the Ambalat oil block in the Celebes Sea; Indonesia and Singapore continue to work on finalizing their 1973 maritime boundary agreement by defining unresolved areas north of Indonesia's Batam Island; Indonesian secessionists, squatters, and illegal migrants create repatriation problems for Papua New Guinea; maritime delimitation talks continue with Palau; EEZ negotiations with Vietnam are ongoing, and the two countries in Fall 2011 agreed to work together to reduce illegal fishing along their maritime boundaryIndonesia has a stated foreign policy objective of establishing stable fixed land and maritime boundaries with all of its neighbors; three stretches of land borders with Timor-Leste have yet to be delimited, two of which are in the Oecussi exclave area, and no maritime or Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) boundaries have been established between the countries; all borders between Indonesia and Australia have been agreed upon bilaterally, but a 1997 treaty that would settle the last of their maritime and EEZ boundary has yet to be ratified by Indonesia's legislature; Indonesian groups challenge Australia's claim to Ashmore Reef; Australia has closed parts of the Ashmore and Cartier Reserve to Indonesian traditional fishing and placed restrictions on certain catches; land and maritime negotiations with Malaysia are ongoing, and disputed areas include the controversial Tanjung Datu and Camar Wulan border area in Borneo and the maritime boundary in the Ambalat oil block in the Celebes Sea; Indonesia and Singapore continue to work on finalizing their 1973 maritime boundary agreement by defining unresolved areas north of Indonesia's Batam Island; Indonesian secessionists, squatters, and illegal migrants create repatriation problems for Papua New Guinea; maritime delimitation talks continue with Palau; EEZ negotiations with Vietnam are ongoing, and the two countries in Fall 2011 agreed to work together to reduce illegal fishing along their maritime boundary
Refugees and internally displaced persons: refugees (country of origin): 5,792 (Afghanistan) (mid-year 2021)

IDPs: 40,000 (inter-communal, inter-faith, and separatist violence between 1998 and 2004 in Aceh and Papua; religious attacks and land conflicts in 2007 and 2013; most IDPs in Aceh, Maluku, East Nusa Tengarra) (2020)

stateless persons: 668 (mid-year 2021)
Illicit drugs: a transit and destination point for illicit narcotics; consumer of crystal methamphetamine trafficked in Burma and Pakistan and also transit to Australia and New Zealand; significant consumer of ecstasy from China and the Netherlands and domestically grown cannabis  a transit and destination point for illicit narcotics; consumer of crystal methamphetamine trafficked in Burma and Pakistan and also transit to Australia and New Zealand; significant consumer of ecstasy from China and the Netherlands and domestically grown cannabis


Topic: Photos of Norfolk Island

Topic: Introduction
Background: Polynesians lived on Norfolk Island between 1200 and 1500 but the remote island was uninhabited by the time British explorer James COOK landed on the island in 1774. Two British attempts at establishing the island as a penal colony (1788-1814 and 1825-55) were ultimately abandoned.

In 1856, almost 200 Pitcairn Islanders - descendants of the Bounty mutineers and their Tahitian companions - were relocated to Norfolk Island because of overcrowding on the Pitcairn Islands. Some returned to the Pitcairn Islands over the next few years but most settled permanently on Norfolk Island and recreated the land tenure and governance structures they previously had. Norfolk Island retained a great degree of local control until 1897, when it became a dependency of New South Wales. During World War II, Norfolk Island was an airbase and an important refueling stop in the South Pacific. In 1976, an Australian judge recommended Norfolk Island be incorporated fully into Australia, which Norfolk Islanders rejected. Following an appeal to the UN, Australia granted limited self-government to Norfolk Island in 1979.

With growing financial troubles during the 2000s, Australia abolished the Norfolk Island Legislative Assembly in 2015, reduced Norfolk Island’s autonomy in 2016, and suspended the local council in 2020. Most services are provided by a mix of the Australian Capital Territory and the states of New South Wales and Queensland. These moves were unpopular on Norfolk Island, which has sought to have its self-government restored.Visit the Definitions and Notes page to view a description of each topic.

Topic: Geography
Location: Oceania, island in the South Pacific Ocean, east of Australia
Geographic coordinates: 29 02 S, 167 57 E
Map references: Oceania
Area: total: 36 sq km

land: 36 sq km

water: 0 sq km
Area - comparative: about 0.2 times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries: total: 0 km
Coastline: 32 km
Maritime claims: territorial sea: 12 nm

contiguous zone: 24 nm

exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm
Climate: subtropical; mild, little seasonal temperature variation
Terrain: volcanic island with mostly rolling plains
Elevation: highest point: Mount Bates 319 m

lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
Natural resources: fish
Land use: agricultural land: 25% (2018 est.)

arable land: 0% (2018 est.)

permanent crops: 0% (2018 est.)

permanent pasture: 25% (2018 est.)

forest: 11.5% (2018 est.)

other: 63.5% (2018 est.)
Irrigated land: 0 sq km (2012)
Population distribution: population concentrated around the capital of Kingston
Natural hazards: tropical cyclones (especially May to July)
Geography - note: most of the 32 km coastline consists of almost inaccessible cliffs, but the land slopes down to the sea in one small southern area on Sydney Bay, where the capital of Kingston is situated
Map description: Norfolk Island map shows a few population centers on this island in the South Pacific Ocean.Norfolk Island map shows a few population centers on this island in the South Pacific Ocean.

Topic: People and Society
Population: 1,748 (2016 est.)
Nationality: noun: Norfolk Islander(s)

adjective: Norfolk Islander(s)
Ethnic groups: Australian 22.8%, English 22.4%, Pitcairn Islander 20%, Scottish 6%, Irish 5.2% (2011 est.)

note: respondents were able to identify up to two ancestries; percentages represent a proportion of all responses from people in Norfolk Island, including those who did not identify an ancestry; only top responses are shownAustralian 22.8%, English 22.4%, Pitcairn Islander 20%, Scottish 6%, Irish 5.2%
Languages: English (official) 44.9%, Norfolk (also known as Norfuk or Norf'k, which is a mixture of 18th century English and ancient Tahitian) 40.3%, Fijian 1.8%, other 6.8%, unspecified 6.2% (2016 est.)

note: data represent language spoken at home
Religions: Protestant 46.8% (Anglican 29.2%, Uniting Church in Australia 9.8%, Presbyterian 2.9%, Seventh Day Adventist 2.7%, other 2.2%), Roman Catholic 12.6%, other Christian 2.9%, other 1.4%, none 26.7%, unspecified 9.5% (2016 est.)
Age structure: 0-14 years: NA

15-24 years: NA

25-54 years: NA

55-64 years: NA

65 years and over: NA
Dependency ratios: total dependency ratio: NA

youth dependency ratio: NA

elderly dependency ratio: NA

potential support ratio: NA
Population growth rate: 0.01% (2014 est.)
Birth rate: NA
Death rate: NA
Population distribution: population concentrated around the capital of Kingston
Sex ratio: NA
Infant mortality rate: total: (2018) NA

male: NA

female: NA
Life expectancy at birth: total population: (2017 est.) NA

male: NA

female: NA
Total fertility rate: NA
Contraceptive prevalence rate: NA
Drinking water source: improved: urban: NA

rural: NA

total: NA

unimproved: urban: NA

rural: NA

total: NA
Current Health Expenditure: NA
Sanitation facility access: improved: urban: NA

rural: NA

total: NA

unimproved: urban: NA

rural: NA

total: (2020) NA
HIV/AIDS - adult prevalence rate: NA
HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS: NA
HIV/AIDS - deaths: NA
Children under the age of 5 years underweight: NA
Education expenditures: NA

Topic: Environment
Environment - current issues: inadequate solid waste management; most freshwater obtained through rainwater catchment; preservation of unique ecosystem
Climate: subtropical; mild, little seasonal temperature variation
Land use: agricultural land: 25% (2018 est.)

arable land: 0% (2018 est.)

permanent crops: 0% (2018 est.)

permanent pasture: 25% (2018 est.)

forest: 11.5% (2018 est.)

other: 63.5% (2018 est.)

Topic: Government
Country name: conventional long form: Territory of Norfolk Island

conventional short form: Norfolk Island

etymology: named by British explorer Captain James COOK after Mary HOWARD, Duchess of Norfolk, in 1774
Government type: non-self-governing overseas territory of Australia; note - the Norfolk Island Regional Council, which began operations 1 July 2016, is responsible for planning and managing a variety of public services, including those funded by the Government of Australia
Dependency status: self-governing territory of Australia; administered from Canberra by the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Cities & Regional Development
Capital: name: Kingston

geographic coordinates: 29 03 S, 167 58 E

time difference: UTC+11 (16 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)

daylight saving time: +1hr, begins first Sunday in October; ends first Sunday in April

etymology: the name is a blending of the words "king's" and "town"; the British king at the time of the town's settlement in the late 18th century was George III
Administrative divisions: none (territory of Australia)
Independence: none (territory of Australia)
National holiday: Bounty Day (commemorates the arrival of Pitcairn Islanders), 8 June (1856)
Constitution: history: previous 1913, 1957; latest effective 7 August 1979

amendments: amended many times, last in 2020
Legal system: English common law and the laws of Australia
Citizenship: see Australia
Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal
Executive branch: chief of state: Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952); represented by Governor General of the Commonwealth of Australia General David HURLEY (since 1 July 2019)

head of government: Administrator Eric HUTCHINSON (since 1 April 2017)

cabinet: Executive Council consists of 4 Legislative Assembly members

elections/appointments: the monarchy is hereditary; governor general appointed by the monarch; administrator appointed by the governor general of Australia for a 2-year term and represents the monarch and Australia
Legislative branch: description: unicameral Norfolk Island Regional Council (5 seats; councillors directly elected by simple majority vote to serve 4-year terms); mayor elected annually by the councillors

elections: elections last held 28 May 2016 (next rescheduled to be held in 2022)

election results: seats by party - independent 5; composition - men 4, women 1, percent of women 20%

note: following an administrative restructuring of local government, the Legislative Assembly was dissolved on 18 June 2015 and replaced by an interim Norfolk Island Advisory Council effective 1 July 2015; the Advisory Council consisted of 5 members appointed by the Norfolk Island administrator based on nominations from the community; following elections on 28 May 2016, the new Norfolk Island Regional Council (NIRC) commenced operations on 1 July 2016; on 20 December 2020 the NIRC was suspended for three months following a public audit and this suspension was extended on 3 February 2021 for an additional three months pending the outcome of a public inquiry; the council election previously scheduled for 13 March 2021 has been postponed 12 months
Judicial branch: highest courts: Supreme Court of Norfolk Island (consists of the chief justice and several justices); note - appeals beyond the Supreme Court of Norfolk Island are heard by the Federal Court and the High Court of Australia

judge selection and term of office: justices appointed by the governor general of Australia from among justices of the Federal Court of Australia; justices serve until mandatory retirement at age 70

subordinate courts: Petty Court of Sessions; specialized courts, including a Coroner's Court and the Employment Tribunal
Political parties and leaders: Norfolk Island Labor Party [Mike KELLY]
Norfolk Liberals [John BROWN]
International organization participation: UPU
Diplomatic representation in the US: none (territory of Australia)
Diplomatic representation from the US: embassy: none (territory of Australia)
Flag description: three vertical bands of green (hoist side), white, and green with a large green Norfolk Island pine tree centered in the slightly wider white band; green stands for the rich vegetation on the island, and the pine tree - endemic to the island - is a symbol of Norfolk Island

note: somewhat reminiscent of the flag of Canada with its use of only two colors and depiction of a prominent local floral symbol in the central white band; also resembles the green and white triband of Nigeria
National symbol(s): Norfolk Island pine
National anthem: name: Come Ye Blessed

lyrics/music: New Testament/John Prindle SCOTT

note: the local anthem, whose lyrics consist of the words from Matthew 25:34-36, 40, is also known as "The Pitcairn Anthem;" the island does not recognize "Advance Australia Fair" (which other Australian territories use); instead "God Save the Queen" is official (see United Kingdom)

Topic: Economy
Economic overview: Norfolk Island is suffering from a severe economic downturn. Tourism, the primary economic activity, is the main driver of economic growth. The agricultural sector has become self-sufficient in the production of beef, poultry, and eggs.
Real GDP (purchasing power parity): NANA
Agricultural products: Norfolk Island pine seed, Kentia palm seed, cereals, vegetables, fruit; cattle, poultry
Industries: tourism, light industry, ready mixed concrete
Labor force: 978 (2006)
Labor force - by occupation: agriculture: 6%

industry: 14%

services: 80% (2006 est.)
Budget: revenues: 4.6 million (FY99/00)

expenditures: 4.8 million (FY99/00)
Fiscal year: 1 July - 30 June
Exports: NANA
Exports - partners: Philippines 29%, Singapore 21%, India 14%, Belgium 7%, Australia 5%, Canada 5% (2019)
Exports - commodities: soybean meal, Norfolk Island pine seeds, Kentia palm seeds, activated carbon, centrifuges, pesticides, postage stamps (2019)
Imports: $NA$NA
Imports - partners: New Zealand 23%, Australia 19%, Philippines 19%, Singapore 14%, Fiji 11% (2019)
Imports - commodities: clothing and apparel, chemical analysis instruments, refined petroleum, cars, kitchen machinery (2019)
Debt - external: NANA
Exchange rates: Australian dollars (AUD) per US dollar -

1.311 (2017 est.)

1.3291 (2016 est.)

1.3291 (2015)

1.3291 (2014 est.)

1.1094 (2013 est.)

Topic: Communications
Telecommunication systems: general assessment: adequate, 4G mobile telecommunication network (2020)

domestic: free local calls

international: country code - 672; submarine cable links with Australia and New Zealand; satellite earth station - 1

note: the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a significant impact on production and supply chains globally; since 2020, some aspects of the telecom sector have experienced downturn, particularly in mobile device production; many network operators delayed upgrades to infrastructure; progress towards 5G implementation was postponed or slowed in some countries; consumer spending on telecom services and devices was affected by large-scale job losses and the consequent restriction on disposable incomes; the crucial nature of telecom services as a tool for work and school from home became evident, and received some support from governments
Broadcast media: 1 local radio station; broadcasts of several Australian radio and TV stations available via satellite (2009)
Internet country code: .nf
Internet users: total: 612 (2016 est.)

percent of population: 35% (2016 est.)

Topic: Transportation
Airports: total: 1 (2021)
Airports - with paved runways: total: 1

1,524 to 2,437 m: 1 (2021)
Roadways: total: 80 km (2008)

paved: 53 km (2008)

unpaved: 27 km (2008)
Ports and terminals: major seaport(s): Kingston

Topic: Military and Security
Military - note: defense is the responsibility of Australia

Topic: Transnational Issues
Disputes - international: nonenone