# Vanuatu

> island country in Oceania

**Wikidata**: [Q686](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q686)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vanuatu)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/vanuatu

## Summary
Vanuatu is an island country in Oceania, officially known as the Republic of Vanuatu, that gained independence from France and the United Kingdom in 1980. It is a sovereign state composed of over 80 islands in the South Pacific, known for its unique Melanesian culture, diverse languages, and natural beauty.

## Key Facts
- **Area**: 12,190 square kilometers
- **Capital**: Port Vila
- **Official Languages**: Bislama, English, and French
- **Currency**: Vanuatu vatu (VUV)
- **Population**: Approximately 300,019 (2020 census)
- **Time Zone**: UTC+11:00 (Pacific/Efate)
- **Government**: Presidential republic
- **Independence**: July 30, 1980
- **Member of**: United Nations, Commonwealth of Nations, World Trade Organization, and other international organizations
- **Flag**: Features a red field with a yellow circle containing a green cross, representing the cross of St. Andrew, the patron saint of Scotland, reflecting Vanuatu's historical ties to the UK
- **Anthem**: "Yumi, Yumi, Yumi" (Long God yumi stanap)
- **Highest Point**: Mount Tabwemasana
- **Lowest Point**: Pacific Ocean (0 meters elevation)
- **Driving Side**: Right
- **VAT Rate**: 13%
- **ISO Codes**: VU (alpha-2), VUT (alpha-3), 548 (numeric)
- **Calling Code**: +678
- **Top-Level Domain**: .vu

## FAQs
- **What is the official name of Vanuatu?**
  The official name is the Republic of Vanuatu, also known as Ripablik blong Vanuatu in Bislama and République du Vanuatu in French.

- **What are the main languages spoken in Vanuatu?**
  The official languages are Bislama, English, and French. Over 110 indigenous languages are also spoken.

- **What is the capital of Vanuatu?**
  The capital is Port Vila, located on the island of Efate.

- **What is the currency of Vanuatu?**
  The currency is the Vanuatu vatu (VUV), with 100 vatus making up one vatu.

- **What is the population of Vanuatu?**
  As of 2020, the population was approximately 300,019, with a birth rate of 28.968 per 1,000 and a death rate of 5.312 per 1,000.

- **What is the time zone of Vanuatu?**
  Vanuatu operates on UTC+11:00, using the Pacific/Efate time zone.

- **What is the highest point in Vanuatu?**
  The highest point is Mount Tabwemasana, located on the island of Pentecost.

- **What is the lowest point in Vanuatu?**
  The lowest point is the Pacific Ocean, with an elevation of 0 meters.

- **What is the driving side in Vanuatu?**
  The driving side is on the right, like most countries in the world.

- **What is the VAT rate in Vanuatu?**
  The standard VAT rate is 13%.

- **What are the ISO codes for Vanuatu?**
  The ISO codes are VU (alpha-2), VUT (alpha-3), and 548 (numeric).

- **What is the calling code for Vanuatu?**
  The international calling code is +678.

- **What is the top-level domain for Vanuatu?**
  The top-level domain is .vu.

## Why It Matters
Vanuatu plays a crucial role in the South Pacific as a small island developing state, facing unique challenges such as climate change, natural disasters, and economic instability. Its independence in 1980 marked a significant milestone in Pacific politics, and it remains a member of key international organizations like the United Nations and the Commonwealth of Nations. The country's natural resources, including fisheries and agriculture, are vital to its economy, but it also relies on foreign aid and remittances. Vanuatu's cultural diversity and traditional practices, such as kastom (customary law), reflect its rich heritage, making it a fascinating subject of study for anthropologists and historians. Additionally, Vanuatu's strategic location in the Pacific makes it important for regional security and maritime navigation.

## Notable For
- **First Independent Melanesian Nation**: Vanuatu was the first country in the Pacific to gain independence from colonial powers, breaking away from France and the UK in 1980.
- **Unique Cultural Heritage**: Known for its diverse languages, traditional practices, and vibrant festivals, Vanuatu's culture is a blend of Melanesian, Polynesian, and European influences.
- **Natural Disasters**: Frequently affected by cyclones, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions, Vanuatu is a prime example of the impacts of climate change on small island nations.
- **Biodiversity Hotspot**: Home to unique flora and fauna, including the critically endangered Vanuatu flying fox, Vanuatu is a biodiversity hotspot in the Pacific.
- **Economic Challenges**: Despite its natural resources, Vanuatu faces economic instability, high debt, and reliance on foreign aid, making it a case study in small island development.
- **Pacific Security**: Its strategic location in the South Pacific makes Vanuatu important for regional security and maritime navigation.
- **Cultural Exchange**: Vanuatu's traditional practices, such as kastom (customary law), and its vibrant festivals, like the Vanuatu Independence Day celebrations, reflect its rich cultural heritage.

## Body
### Geography
Vanuatu is an archipelagic state in Melanesia, consisting of over 80 islands in the South Pacific. The country spans approximately 12,190 square kilometers, with the highest point being Mount Tabwemasana on the island of Pentecost. The lowest point is the Pacific Ocean, with an elevation of 0 meters. Vanuatu's geography includes volcanic islands, coral atolls, and reefs, making it a biodiversity hotspot. The country's strategic location in the Pacific Ocean is crucial for maritime navigation and regional security.

### Government and Politics
Vanuatu is a presidential republic with a multi-party system. The current president is Nikenike Vurobaravu, who took office on July 23, 2022. The prime minister is Bob Loughman, who has served since April 20, 2020. Vanuatu is a member of the United Nations, Commonwealth of Nations, World Trade Organization, and other international organizations. It gained independence from France and the United Kingdom on July 30, 1980.

### Economy
Vanuatu's economy is heavily reliant on agriculture, fishing, and tourism. The country's natural resources include timber, fish, and minerals. However, economic instability, high debt, and reliance on foreign aid are significant challenges. The currency is the Vanuatu vatu (VUV), with 100 vatus making up one vatu. The standard VAT rate is 13%.

### Demographics
As of 2020, the population of Vanuatu was approximately 300,019, with a birth rate of 28.968 per 1,000 and a death rate of 5.312 per 1,000. The official languages are Bislama, English, and French, with over 110 indigenous languages also spoken. The country's cultural diversity is reflected in its traditional practices, such as kastom (customary law), and vibrant festivals.

### Culture and Society
Vanuatu's culture is a blend of Melanesian, Polynesian, and European influences. The country is known for its unique languages, traditional practices, and vibrant festivals. The national anthem is "Yumi, Yumi, Yumi" (Long God yumi stanap), and the flag features a red field with a yellow circle containing a green cross. Vanuatu's cultural heritage is a significant part of its identity and is celebrated through various festivals and events.

### History
Vanuatu gained independence from France and the United Kingdom on July 30, 1980, becoming the first country in the Pacific to do so. The country's history includes colonial rule, independence movements, and the impact of natural disasters. Vanuatu's strategic location in the South Pacific has made it important for regional security and maritime navigation.

### Environment
Vanuatu is a biodiversity hotspot in the Pacific, with unique flora and fauna. The country's natural resources include timber, fish, and minerals. However, natural disasters such as cyclones, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions are frequent, making climate change a significant challenge. Vanuatu's environment is crucial for its ecosystem and cultural heritage.

### Education and Health
Vanuatu's education system includes primary, secondary, and tertiary levels. The country's health system faces challenges such as limited resources and high disease rates. Life expectancy is approximately 70 years, and the total fertility rate is 3.347 (2014). The country's education and health systems are important for its population's well-being.

### Sports and Recreation
Vanuatu has a rich sporting culture, with traditional games and modern sports. The country's national sports include rugby, netball, and cricket. Vanuatu has participated in the Pacific Games and other international sporting events. Sports and recreation are important for the country's cultural identity and community engagement.

### Technology and Infrastructure
Vanuatu's technology and infrastructure include telecommunications, transportation, and energy systems. The country's telecommunications infrastructure includes mobile and internet services. Transportation includes domestic and international air and sea routes. Energy systems include hydroelectric and solar power. Technology and infrastructure are crucial for the country's economic development and quality of life.

### International Relations
Vanuatu maintains diplomatic relations with various countries, including Australia, France, the United States, and the United Kingdom. The country is a member of the United Nations, Commonwealth of Nations, World Trade Organization, and other international organizations. International relations are important for Vanuatu's economic development and security.

### Notable People
Vanuatu has produced notable figures in politics, sports, and culture. Notable politicians include Baldwin Lonsdale, Tallis Obed Moses, and Esmon Saimon. Notable athletes include Walter Brown, who won a gold medal in the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics. Notable cultural figures include traditional leaders and artists who preserve Vanuatu's rich heritage.

### Education and Research
Vanuatu has educational institutions at primary, secondary, and tertiary levels. The country's research includes studies on its unique languages, traditional practices, and environmental challenges. Education and research are important for the country's cultural preservation and economic development.

### Tourism and Hospitality
Vanuatu's tourism industry includes cultural, adventure, and eco-tourism. The country's hospitality industry includes hotels, restaurants, and tour operators. Tourism and hospitality are important for the country's economy and cultural preservation.

### Media and Communication
Vanuatu's media includes print, broadcast, and digital platforms. The country's communication infrastructure includes telecommunications and internet services. Media and communication are important for the country's information dissemination and cultural expression.

### Transportation and Logistics
Vanuatu's transportation includes domestic and international air and sea routes. The country's logistics include supply chain management and freight services. Transportation and logistics are important for the country's economic development and trade.

### Energy and Utilities
Vanuatu's energy systems include hydroelectric and solar power. The country's utilities include water and waste management services. Energy and utilities are important for the country's economic development and quality of life.

### Legal and Regulatory Framework
Vanuatu's legal system includes common law and customary law. The country's regulatory framework includes environmental, labor, and consumer protection laws. Legal and regulatory frameworks are important for the country's governance and economic development.

### Social Services and Welfare
Vanuatu's social services include healthcare, education, and social welfare programs. The country's welfare system includes unemployment benefits and social security services. Social services and welfare are important for the country's population's well-being.

### Environmental Conservation
Vanuatu's environmental conservation efforts include protected areas, wildlife conservation, and climate change mitigation. The country's conservation initiatives include community-based natural resource management. Environmental conservation is important for the country's biodiversity and cultural heritage.

### Cultural Preservation
Vanuatu's cultural preservation efforts include traditional practices, languages, and festivals. The country's cultural initiatives include community-based heritage programs. Cultural preservation is important for the country's identity and heritage.

### Economic Development
Vanuatu's economic development efforts include agriculture, fishing, and tourism. The country's development initiatives include foreign aid and investment programs. Economic development is important for the country's economic stability and quality of life.

### Community Engagement
Vanuatu's community engagement efforts include sports, arts, and cultural events. The country's community initiatives include youth and women's empowerment programs. Community engagement is important for the country's social cohesion and cultural expression.

### Related Projects
Vanuatu's related projects include international aid programs, environmental conservation initiatives, and cultural preservation efforts. The country's partnerships include collaborations with international organizations and NGOs. Related projects are important for the country's economic development and cultural preservation.

### References and Further Reading
For further reading on Vanuatu, refer to sources such as the United Nations, World Bank, and Vanuatu National Statistics Office. Additional resources include academic journals, books, and online articles on the country's history, culture, and economy. References and further reading are important for a comprehensive understanding of Vanuatu.

## References

1. BnF authorities
2. [Source](https://www.workwithdata.com/place/vanuatu)
3. [Source](https://consilium.europa.eu/en/policies/eu-list-of-non-cooperative-jurisdictions)
4. Virtual International Authority File
5. [Source](https://data.iana.org/time-zones/tzdb-2021e/australasia)
6. Lingua Libre
7. [Source](https://thecommonwealth.org/our-member-countries/vanuatu)
8. [Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons](https://www.opcw.org/about-opcw/member-states/)
9. [Source](https://www.opcw.org/about-us/member-states/vanuatu)
10. [International Hydrographic Organization](https://www.iho.int/srv1/index.php?option=com_wrapper&view=wrapper&Itemid=452&lang=en)
11. [Source](http://www.unesco.org/eri/cp/ListeMS_Indicators.asp)
12. [Source](http://www.upu.int/en/the-upu/member-countries.html)
13. [Source](https://www.upu.int/en/Universal-Postal-Union/About-UPU/Member-Countries?csid=-1&cid=323)
14. [Source](https://www.itu.int/online/mm/scripts/gensel8)
15. [Source](https://public.wmo.int/en/members/vanuatu)
16. [Source](https://www.who.int/choice/demography/by_country/en/)
17. [Source](https://www.interpol.int/Who-we-are/Member-countries/Asia-South-Pacific/VANUATU)
18. [Source](https://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/pdf/about-us/wco-members/list-of-members-with-membership-date.pdf)
19. [Source](https://www.ncnk.org/sites/default/files/content/resources/publications/NCNK_Issue_Brief_DPRK_Diplomatic_Relations.pdf)
20. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
21. MusicBrainz
22. [Human Development Report. 2022](https://hdr.undp.org/data-center/human-development-index#/indicies/HDI)
23. World Bank Open Data
24. [World Bank Open Data](https://data.worldbank.org/indicator/SP.POP.TOTL)
25. [2020 National Population and Housing Census - Basic Tables Report, Volume 1, Version 2. Vanuatu National Statistics Office](https://vnso.gov.vu/images/Pictures/Census/2020_census/Census_Volume_1/2020NPHC_Volume_1_-_Version_2.pdf)
26. [Source](https://data.worldbank.org/indicator/SI.POV.GINI)
27. [Source](http://cnig.gouv.fr/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/CNT-PVM_r%C3%A9vis%C3%A9_2020-01-27-1.pdf)
28. The National Terminology Database for Irish
29. [Source](https://freedomhouse.org/report/freedom-world/freedom-world-2017)
30. BBC Things
31. [Source](https://www.toyota-gib.com/eng/vehicle-sales/lhd-rhd-guide.html)
32. [World Bank](https://data.worldbank.org/indicator/NY.GDP.MKTP.CD)
33. [UNESCO Institute for Statistics](http://data.uis.unesco.org/Index.aspx?DataSetCode=DEMO_DS)
34. [UNESCO Institute for Statistics](http://data.uis.unesco.org/index.aspx?queryid=3372)
35. BabelNet
36. [International Numbering Resources Database](http://www.itu.int/net/itu-t/inrdb/e129_important_numbers.aspx)
37. [World Plugs](http://www.iec.ch/worldplugs/list_bylocation.htm)
38. WikiUMLS: Aligning UMLS to Wikipedia via Cross-lingual Neural Ranking
39. English as a Global Language, second edition
40. [Source](https://countrycodebase.com/undp/)
41. Aligned ISNI and Ringgold identifiers for institutions
42. [UNESCO Institute for Statistics](http://data.uis.unesco.org/index.aspx?queryid=239)
43. [archINFORM](https://www.archinform.net/service/wd_aiort.php)
44. [Gazetteer](https://github.com/EnvironmentOntology/gaz/blob/master/src/ontology/gaz_countries.csv)
45. [Vanuatu | Today's latest from Al Jazeera](https://www.aljazeera.com/where/vanuatu)
46. iNaturalist
47. FactGrid
48. KBpedia
49. museum-digital
50. [Source](https://happyplanetindex.org/countries/?c=VUT)