There are many in the world amazing countries. Some of them you hear about often, while some of them rarely come to the attention of most people. Of course, it is necessary to constantly improve your level of knowledge and get acquainted with other countries and cultures. In this article we will talk about such a wonderful country as Federated States Micronesia. Indeed, we don’t hear about this state very often, which is why it’s worth talking about it in detail. This country is unique in many respects; when visiting there, tourists are often amazed at how different it is from other parts of the world. Now it’s worth moving on to a detailed story about this state, its history, population, culture and many other interesting things.
A little about the country itself
So, first you need to consider basic information about this country. The Federated States of Micronesia is a state located on the Caroline Islands, which, in turn, are located near New Guinea. We can also say that it is located in Oceania. Of course, it is believed that this is an independent state. It has had this status for quite a long time, since 1986. However, despite this, in fact the country is heavily dependent on US economic assistance. A special agreement has been concluded between these two states, according to which America undertakes to support the financial system of the Federated States of Micronesia, as well as, if necessary, ensure their defense.
A few words should be said about the part of the world where Micronesia is located, that is, Oceania. You can hear this word quite often, but it is not always clear what it means. Oceania is a very unusual region, which consists of a large number of different islands. It is located in the Pacific Ocean. This territory plays an important geopolitical role; it is also often distinguished as a separate geographical object.
How and at what time did it originate?
Now it’s worth moving on to a story about the history of the country. It is incredibly interesting because it is rich in various events. According to many sources, it is believed that the first inhabitants appeared here in the 2nd millennium BC. e. On this basis, it can be said that the Federated States of Micronesia is truly an ancient country. Even some monuments of that time have been preserved, for example, the ruins of ancient Nan-Madol, which appeared in ancient times.
Federated States of Micronesia: history of the country
After a long time, colonization occurred. In those days this was completely unsurprising. At the moment when the process of colonization began, local society was still only at the stage of the primitive system, where communities existed.
The islands on which the state is located were discovered in 1527. They were discovered by Spanish navigators. After some time, the Spaniards declared that the Caroline Islands were in their possession, although in fact at that time control over the territory was not established. After quite a long time, Germany became interested in them. In 1885, she claimed her rights to this state. However, Spain opposed such actions and declared this to arbitration, as a result of which the islands were left behind by Spain. It would seem that the situation was resolved. But this is not entirely true, since Germany expressed a desire to acquire the islands from Spain. In 1899, such a deal was completed.
During the First World War, the islands changed hands as they were captured by Japan. At that time they were used to create sugar plantations. During World War II, these territories passed to the United States. And already in 1986, as mentioned above, the country received the status of free, but is actually dependent on the United States.
Federated States of Micronesia: detailed population information
Now it’s worth talking about the population of this state. Of course, as a result of colonization and constant change of ownership by different countries, the FSM have a very unusual population composition. So, if we talk about the entire population, it is more than 102 thousand people. Such statistics exist for 2010, when the country conducted a census. Due to the low standard of living, there is a fairly large outflow of people, so the level of emigration is also quite high. However, despite this, the average life expectancy of the population here is quite high - 73 years for women and 69 years for men. The ethnic composition here is very diverse and is represented by various nationalities. The largest share is the indigenous population of the island, which is called "Chuuk". It makes up slightly less than 50% of the total number. The rest of the population is represented by other peoples, for example, the Ponape.
Interestingly, the official language of this country is English. It is also used for communication between different nationalities. In addition, there are several other languages for communication between local residents. The population of this country is mostly literate (about 90%).
What peoples live on the territory of the state
Speaking about the country's population, it is necessary to say a few words about its ethnic composition. So, as already mentioned, the predominant people in the country are called Chuuk. Sometimes you can also hear another name for this people - Truk. This is the indigenous population of the islands, which appeared here since time immemorial. Representatives of this people now number no more than 50 thousand people. They have their own language, which has the same name “Truk”. Their main religion is Christianity, but some traditional faiths are still preserved.
Another people that makes up a significant proportion of the country's population (about 25%) is the Ponape. These are the ancient people of Micronesia, who have long lived on island of the same name. Its population is only 28 thousand people. Religious views are mainly Catholicism and Protestantism, however, like the Truk people, traditional cults are preserved. Other nationalities also live here, but they are represented by a much smaller number of people.
So, a short overview of the peoples who inhabit the Federated States of Micronesia was given. A detailed description of these nationalities is necessary in order to better understand the history and culture of this country.
A country's economy
Now that a lot of information about this wonderful country has already been reviewed, it is worth moving on to considering the economy. Many people are interested in what kind of production activities the Federated States of Micronesia are engaged in and what they produce. You can hear about the country that it is mainly a producer of agricultural products.
This is true; Micronesia's economic activity is mainly represented by agricultural production and fishing. Thanks to the climate, many different plants can be grown here, such as coconut trees, vegetables and fruits of different types and varieties, and much more. Livestock farming is also popular, with pigs, goats and chickens most often raised.
The Federated States of Micronesia also has its own industry. The area mainly houses agricultural processing plants, soap factories and wood processing industries.
What is the climate in the Federated States of Micronesia
It is also worth paying a little attention to the local climatic conditions. In these places, nature and weather can be very pleasing. The country lies in the equatorial and subequatorial climate zones. The temperature here generally ranges from 26°C to 33°C. good weather most year can boast of the Federated States of Micronesia. Photos of the wonderful nature of this country can be found in guidebooks and other materials, in particular in this article. It is especially interesting that this part of the ocean is considered the place where large typhoons originate. Their season generally lasts from August to December.
The flora here is quite diverse, most often you can see coconut palms. It is mainly dominated by tropical forests and savannas.
Sights of the country
One of the main attractions of this country is Nan Madol. These are really interesting ruins ancient city which has existed since time immemorial. It was located on a large area, which included more than 90 islands. They were connected to each other by a whole system of various channels.
In addition to the ancient city, the Federated States of Micronesia can boast of many cultural monuments. The capital, Palikir, is also very interesting from a historical point of view. Here you can get acquainted with the culture and sights of this ancient country.
Located in the waters Pacific Ocean, just north of New Guinea, and are part of the Caroline Islands archipelago. Country belongs to geographical region Oceania has an independent status, but at the same time plays the role of an Associated State in alliance with the United States of America, largely dependent on their economic assistance.
Peculiarities
The Federated States of Micronesia consists of 607 islands different forms sizes, some of which are interconnected by dams or bridges. Moreover, only 65 islands of the archipelago are inhabited, and a significant part of the territory is located in private property. The main activities of the islanders are agriculture, fishing, livestock raising and the production of wooden ships. Tourist destination It is poorly developed here due to the remoteness from the outside world and limited financial opportunities. The largest islands are of volcanic origin and abound in mountainous heights, the surface of which is covered with dense forests. All land areas are surrounded by coral reefs and atolls. Undersea world extremely rich and varied. The forests are home to many rare animals and mammals. When staying in Micronesia, you should take into account the peculiarities of the local culture and try to comply with generally accepted norms of behavior. In particular, the islanders do not like to be photographed or filmed, although due to their mentality they are very sociable and always hospitable towards foreigners.
general information
The main religions in the archipelago are Catholicism and Protestantism. The area of the territory is just over 700 square meters. km. The population is about 110,000 people. The official language is English, although in addition to it there are several other local dialects. The main currency on the islands is the American dollar. Time zone +10. Local time ahead of Moscow by 7 hours. The country's telephone code is +691.
A brief excursion into history
The first Micronesian settlements began to appear here around 2,000 BC, and the local residents were divided into various social groups that had unequal status. Civilization came here in 1527, when the first Spanish ships appeared in the coastal waters of the Caroline Islands. At the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries, Germany bought these lands from the Spaniards. During the First World War, the islands were captured by the Japanese, who established sugar cane plantations here. A few decades later, after the end of World War II, the Americans occupied the archipelago, and in 1986 the Federated States of Micronesia acquired the status of a sovereign state in free association with the United States, with the latter taking on the burden of ensuring security and financing the FSM.
Climate
This Pacific region is dominated by an equatorial and subequatorial climate with minor seasonal variations. Throughout the year, the average air temperature on the islands ranges from +25 to +35 degrees, and it often rains. From August to December, typhoons with strong hurricane winds hit the territory of Micronesia. The greatest part of precipitation occurs in April, when tropical downpours pour down like a continuous wall. The most acceptable times of the year to visit the FSH are the periods from January to March and from the second half of May to July, when the likelihood of natural disasters is minimized.
Visa and customs regulations
When visiting the country for less than 1 month, you do not need a visa. In this case, each state is considered separately and the period of 30 days is counted again from the moment of crossing the border of any of the 4 administrative territories. All 4 states have customs border, on which generally accepted customs standards apply regarding the transportation of certain goods. There is no Russian embassy in Micronesia, and the nearest one is located in the Philippines.
How to get there
Each of the FSF states has its own international Airport, and the island of Yap has a deep-sea port that regularly receives large ocean liners. There are no direct flights with the CIS countries, so you can get to the archipelago by air either from Tokyo, Japan or from Manila, Philippines. There are also flights from the Hawaiian Islands (Honolulu Airport) and the island of Guam, also part of the United States.
Transport
Within the country, private buses and taxis are actively used as the main means of transportation. Public transport missing here. There are regular ferry services between the islands. If you wish, it is worth renting a car, especially since the prices for this type of service are quite reasonable.
The most interesting
Administratively, the FSM is divided into 4 states: Chuuk, Kusai, Pohnpei and Yap. Each of them has several islands and atolls, while having its own administrative center. The most populous state is Chuuk. It is home to over 53,000 islanders. The capital of Chuuk is the island city of Veno, which has own airport, several hotels and excellent diving conditions. The state of Pohnpei is home to the capital of the entire country, the city of Palikar, with a population of about 20,000 people. It is located on the island of Pohnpei, part of the state of the same name. This area of land is considered one of the wettest on the planet. More than 7600 mm of precipitation falls here annually. The surface of the island is replete with an abundance of coconut palms and pandanus trees, and mangroves grow along the coast. Not far from Palikara is the city of Colonia, which has a developed tourism infrastructure, including hotels, restaurants and entertainment venues. The main attraction of Pohnpei is the ruins of the ancient city of Nan Madol, dating back to the origins of megalithic culture. The third state of the country, Kusai, includes several land areas, including the island of the same name with the local capital Tofol, geographically considered the easternmost point of the Carolina Archipelago, not far from Hawaii. The fourth state of the country, Yap, consists of 4 large islands, 7 small and several dozen atolls. It is known for its distinctive culture and ancient traditions. In addition, the local lagoons offer excellent conditions for scuba diving, and island shores ideal for hiking and admiring the ocean views.
The main advantage of the Federated States of Micronesia is its magnificent natural landscapes and ocean expanses, so revered by numerous diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. To explore the underwater beauty of the local atolls and coral reefs, you can use any island or tiny piece of land by going there by boat or boat. On the island of Veno, Mount Tonachau attracts attention with a picturesque waterfall and ancient petroglyphs on the walls of mysterious rock caves. In addition, fragments of military equipment and bunkers of Japanese soldiers who took refuge on the island during the Second World War have been preserved here. Since then, a lighthouse has risen on the coast, with a lighthouse equipped on it. observation deck. The original traditions and culture of Micronesia are most clearly represented on the island of Yap, where you can see the ancient stone money of the islanders and enjoy the dancing of local beauties dressed in national costumes. On the islands of the state of Kusai, in the thickets of the tropical forest, you can see traces of ancient civilizations, including partially surviving fragments of the temple of the goddess Shinlaku and the ruins of Menka, with medicinal plants growing along them.
In the state of Chuuk, a real find for diving enthusiasts is the unique Truk Lagoon, which is a free underwater museum, where instead of the traditional shining, well-kept halls, fans of deep-sea diving are offered a real sandy battlefield, dotted with the remains of guns, planes and ships that sank during the battles of World War II war. Along the entire coastline Pohnpei Island, there is a ring road that allows you to easily get to its most picturesque places. Here, first of all, Mount Nana Laud is notable, its height reaches 800 meters. Several dozen rivers originate from it, cutting the island territory. Along them there are many waterfalls, the most famous of which are Keprohi, Sauvartik and Lidudunlap. These places are recommended for lovers of eco-tourism, especially since comfortable campsites are located right among wild natural landscapes, allowing travelers to have a good rest and relaxation. Like all other regions of the archipelago, Pohnpei is distinguished by a wealth of animal life, and in the local waters among the vegetation you can see anemones, soft, hard and fire corals. During the dive, you will often encounter such common marine life of the Pacific Ocean as sharks, manta rays, sea turtles and all kinds of tropical fish. The islanders celebrate several national holidays throughout the year. They are held very fun and solemnly, so if you are in the country on one of these days, you should definitely experience such an event in order to become imbued with the culture and traditions of this amazing people.
The Federated States of Micronesia is one of the most remote, and therefore attractive, countries in the world. It has a lot of advantages and even if it is not a popular tourist Mecca on a planetary scale, it arouses genuine interest among travel lovers and serves as an excellent reason to get acquainted with distant and mysterious shores, lost in the vast waters of the Pacific Ocean.
An island nation in the Pacific Ocean comprising the central and eastern Caroline Islands and Kapingamargagi Atoll.
Territory - 701.4 sq. km. The capital is Palikir.
Population - 140 thousand people. (1998), predominantly Micronesians.
The official language is English.
Religion - most believers are Christians.
In the XVII-XIX centuries. Micronesia belonged to Spain from 1898-1914. Germany, since 1920 a mandate territory of Japan, since 1947 a UN trust territory under US administration. Since 1986 it has been a “freely associated” state with the United States. This status means that the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) has full sovereignty, excluding defense issues, which remain the prerogative of the United States. Admitted to the UN in 1991.
Micronesia is a federal state consisting of 4 states with their own governments: Chuuk (formerly Truk), Kosrae, Pohnpei (Ponape) and Yap. States have a high degree of independence in almost all spheres of public life.
The Constitution of 1979 is in force, modeled on the US Constitution. According to the form of government, the FSM is a republic of a special type. The political regime is democratic. There are no political parties.
Legislative power belongs to the federal unicameral parliament - the National Congress of the FSM, consisting of 14 senators (4 senators are elected, one from each state for a period of 4 years, 10 in single-member districts with approximately an equal number of voters for a period of 2 years).
The head of state and government is the President, elected by members of the FSM National Congress from among 4 state senators for a term of 4 years. At the same time, the Vice President is elected.
The government of the states is established by their own constitutions and is generally similar to the federal one.
Legal system
Micronesia's legal system is based on US law. In certain areas of relations (land, family, inheritance), norms of local customary law also apply, the role of which is recognized by the Constitution.
Labor law in Micronesia has not received significant development, since the country has a small number of employees. The Constitution and legislation do not directly establish the right to organize into trade unions, strike and collective bargaining, or limit working hours. By 2000, not a single trade union had been formed in the FSM.
The Federation and the states continue to use the Criminal Code of the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands, introduced by the American administration. Everyone uses their own version of this act, which they independently amend. Yap State adopted the US Model Penal Code. The main difference from the United States in the field of criminal law is the prohibition of the death penalty established by the FSM Constitution (Article IV Section 9).
The FSM Constitution's Bill of Rights includes procedural guarantees of individual rights in criminal proceedings that closely mirror the corresponding provisions of the US Constitution. The adversarial process system borrowed from the United States contradicts national traditions Micronesians. Because of this, a large number of criminal cases do not end up in the courts, but are resolved through conciliation procedures with the participation of the families of the perpetrator and the victim in accordance with local customs.
Judicial system. Control authorities
The judicial system is headed by the FSM Supreme Court, consisting of 3 judges sitting in two divisions: first instance and appellate. This is the only federal court. Supreme Court judges are appointed by the FSM President for life with the approval of Congress.
Each FSM state has its own supreme court with a similar structure. Only in the state of Kosrae there is no appellate division - this function is performed by the Supreme Court. There are also a small number of local (municipal) courts on the islands.
The criminal prosecution system is headed by the Attorney General, who is both the head of the Department of Justice (a member of the Cabinet) and the chief legal adviser to the government. Since 1991, the vast majority of cases have come under state jurisdiction.
All states except Kosrae recognize the institution of traditional leaders, who play a significant role in resolving various types of disputes.
The highest financial control body is the public auditor, appointed by the President with the advice and consent of Congress for a period of 4 years.
MICRONESIA
Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), a state in the northwestern part of Oceania between 0 and 14° N latitude. and 136 and 166° E. (2500 km from west to east), occupies 607 islands of the Caroline archipelago (except for the islands of Palau, or Belau, in the west). Consists of four states: Yap, Chuuk (formerly Truk), Pohnpei (formerly Ponape) and Kosrae (formerly Kusae). The total land area is 700.8 square meters. km, more than half of it is occupied by the state of Pohnpei. Only 40 of the 607 islands are significant in size. The largest of them are islands with the same names as the states. The capital is the city of Palikir on Pohnpei Island.
- Federated States of Micronesia. The capital is Palikir. Population - 109 thousand people (1996). Area - 700.8 sq. km. The highest point is Mount Nana Laud (on Pohnpei Island, height 798 m). Main languages: English (official), Japanese, Trukian, Pohnpei, Kosrae. The main religion is Christianity (Catholicism, Protestantism). Administrative division: four states. The monetary unit is the US dollar. National holidays: the same as in the USA; own - Constitution Day - May 10, Micronesia Day - July 12, United Nations Day - October 25.
Flag of the Federated States of Micronesia
On the map of Oceania
Based on their geological structure, they distinguish between low coral islands, rising 3-5 m above sea level, and higher volcanic ones (Yap, Chuuk, Pohnpei, Kosrae), with elevated mountainous central parts. Volcanic islands are surrounded by lagoons separated from the ocean by coral barrier reefs, often consisting of several dozen small islands. Many reefs have passages that allow ships to approach large islands.
The state of Yap (121.2 sq. km) includes seven small and four large islands (Yap, Map, Rumung, Gagil-Tomil) and 134 atolls, stretching from west to east over 1,100 km. Yap Island is characterized by hilly terrain with a maximum height of 178 m (Mount Tabiwol) and fertile soils. It is surrounded by a barrier reef. Most of the population of the state of the same name lives on the island of Japan. The administrative center of the state is the city of Colonia. The largest atoll of the Caroline Islands, Ulithi Island (8 sq. km) consists of 40 small islands. Fais Atoll in the Yap group is famous for its phosphorite reserves.
Chuuk State, which occupies a central position in the FSM, is located 1440 km east of Yap and consists of 15 small island groups (total land area 118 sq. km), scattered in the Pacific Ocean over a 480 km latitudinal direction in the north and 960 km - in the south. The state also includes the atolls of Namonuito (second in area in the world), consisting of 10 islands, Namoluk (triangular in shape), Laol, Pis, Talap, the islands of Pular, Puluwat, Kuop, Nama, Losap, Mortlock (100 islands in three groups - Etal, Lukunor and Satavan). The Chuuk Islands themselves are a compact group of 14 mountainous islands of volcanic origin (Moen, Tol, Dublon, Fefan, Uman, etc.) with a total area of 72 square meters. km, surrounded by a coral reef. Main city Chuuk Moen State is located on the island of the same name. Lagoon surrounding the 14 central islands of the Chuuk group with an area of 2000 square meters. km, serves as an excellent harbor for the port on the island of Dublon. Settlements are confined to the coasts of the islands.
The state of Pohnpei (land area 345.4 sq. km) occupies the largest island of the same name, surrounded by a reef consisting of 2.5 dozen islets, half of which are of volcanic origin. The state also includes the islands of Ant (2 large and 12 small), Pakin, Oroluk (with small islands), Mokil (Urak, Manton, Mokil islands with excellent timber and several hundred small ones), Pingelap (Pingelap itself, Takai and Tagulu , united by one reef), as well as two isolated atolls, Nukuoro and Kapingamarangi (also known as Greenwich).
Soils about. Pohnpei is fertile, with lush forest cover the slopes that rise straight from the shores up to Mount Nana Laud (798 m), located in the center of the island. Numerous rivers - sources of drinking water - originate from it. On this island is the capital of the state, Palikir, with the residences of government and congress, a modern airport and seaport. The administrative center of the state is the city of Colonia.
The state of Kosrae (109.8 sq. km) is located on the island of the same name and the surrounding reef in the extreme east of the FSM. The island is mountainous with a highly dissected topography (the highest point is Mount Finkol, 634 m above sea level), covered with thickets of excellent timber. The soils are fertile. There are significant reserves of river drinking water. The island of Kosrae is surrounded by a reef and has four convenient bays (Okat, Lelu, Taf and Utwe). The main settlements - Tafunsak, Lelu, Malem and Utwe - are located on the coast and are connected by an unpaved road. The main city of the state is Lelu. There is local air service to Pohnpei. The airport is operational.
The FSM climate is equatorial, more humid in the east of the archipelago, where the cyclone zone passes. Conventionally, two seasons are distinguished: dry (January - March) and wet (April - December). The part of the Pacific Ocean where Micronesia is located is an area where typhoons occur (on average there are up to 25 typhoons per year). Typhoon season is from August to December.
From November to December, northeast trade winds predominate; the rest of the year, southwest monsoon winds blow, bringing heavy precipitation. Pohnpei has an average of 300 rainy days a year. The average annual precipitation is 3000-4000 mm. Seasonal fluctuations in air temperature are insignificant, average monthly temperatures are 24-30° C. The length of daylight hours is the same throughout the year.
The vegetation is represented mainly by virgin moist equatorial forests on the mountain slopes. On volcanic islands it is significantly more diverse than on coral islands. The coasts of volcanic islands are often covered mangroves. On both types of islands, coconut palms, breadfruit trees, pandanus trees, and bananas grow. Europeans and Asians introduced citrus fruits, cassava, sweet potatoes, various tropical fruit trees, chocolate trees, and black pepper.
The land fauna is not very diverse. Bats, rats (brought on ships by the first Europeans), and lizards are represented. Many types of birds. The fauna of the ocean is extremely diverse and rich, including many species of fish, crustaceans, bivalves, dolphins, and sometimes whales and dugongs.
POPULATION
109 thousand people live on the FSM islands. About half the population lives on the islands of the state of Chuuk - 52.3 thousand people, in the state of Pohnpei - 33.7 thousand, Yap - 11.2 thousand, Kosrae - 7.3 thousand (in the latter state the average age does not exceed 20 years). The FSM's accession to the Compact of "Free Association" with the United States allows citizens of the country to freely choose their place of residence within the United States. Currently, in the USA (on the island of Guam, the Hawaiian Islands and on the mainland) approx. 15 thousand FSM citizens.
The average population density in the country in 1994 (latest census data) was 150 people per 1 sq. km (in the state of Chuuk - 420, Pohnpei - 98, Yap - 94, Kosrae - 66). As a rule, it is higher on volcanic islands (the exception is Nama Atoll, which has an area of 0.7 sq. km and is home to 1,020 people). The birth rate in the FSM in 1994 was more than 20 per 1000 inhabitants (average female fertility 4.7, in the state of Yap -3.7, Chuuk - 5.6, Pohnpei - 4.4, Kosrae - 4.2), mortality - 3, 4 per 1000. Infant mortality - 46 per 1000 births. Life expectancy is 62.5 years.
Average life expectancy is 69.13 years. Population growth in 2003 was 0.04%. The birth rate reaches 26.47 per 1000 inhabitants, the mortality rate is 5.1 per 1000. The emigration rate is 20.98 per 1000. Infant mortality is 32.39 per 1000 births.
The Compact of “Free Association” with the United States allows citizens of the country to freely choose their place of residence within the United States. Currently, in the USA (on the island of Guam, the Hawaiian Islands and on the mainland) approx. 15 thousand FSM citizens.
The ancestors of the modern inhabitants of the Caroline Islands come from Southeast Asia. Racially, they form a special group, formed as a result of the mixing of Australoid and Mongoloid elements. The atolls of Nukuoro and Kapingamarangi are inhabited by Polynesians. Ethnically, there are 9 groups.
Ethnogenesis and occupations of the population.
The ancestors of the modern inhabitants of the Caroline Islands come from Southeast Asia. According to the latest theories, Micronesia was settled in two ways - through the islands of the Malay Archipelago, and possibly the Japanese Islands, and also through Vanuatu (formerly the New Hebrides). The inhabitants of the Caroline Islands, like all Micronesians, form a special group racially, formed as a result of the mixing of Australoid and Mongoloid elements. They are characterized by fairly dark skin, wavy, straight and curly hair, and average height. The appearance of some Carolinians also contains Japanese, Chinese and European features. The atolls of Nukuoro and Kapingamarangi are inhabited by Polynesians.
The traditional occupations of the local population are fishing and farming. Small areas of forest cleared from forest are used for the cultivation of coconut palms, breadfruit, pandanus, yams, sweet potatoes, cassava, bananas, taro, and sugar cane. Currently, citrus fruits, various fruits (pineapples, papaya, mangoes, etc.), chocolate trees, and peppers (black and betel) are also grown. The population also engages in fishing and collecting mollusks and crustaceans on the reef. In recent years, employment in the tourism business (hotels, restaurants, agencies) and airports has been growing. In the cities, Carolinians work as petty employees and are engaged in handicrafts, in particular, making souvenirs.
Language and writing. The official language of the FSM is English, which is also the language of interethnic communication. The languages of the indigenous population of the archipelago belong to the Eastern Oceanic group of the Oceanian branch of the Austronesian family - Yapese, Woleai, Ulithi and Sonsorol, Carolinian, Truk, Kosrae, Nukuoro and Kapingamarangi. The last two are Polynesian languages. The writing of local languages is based on the Latin script. English is taught in all schools. Many older people speak Japanese.
Confessional composition. The overwhelming majority of the population is Christian, with approximately equal numbers of Catholics and Protestants. In some states Protestants predominate (over 98% in Kosrae), in others - Catholics (Chuuk State). Less than 1% of the population adheres to local traditional beliefs.
POLITICAL SYSTEM
The FSM is a federal state headed by a president, in a relationship of “free association” with the United States. The President and Vice-President of the country are elected by members of the FSM National Congress from among their members, but the latter cannot come from the same state as the President. The population of the states elects the governor and local legislature. The country's unicameral legislative body, the National Congress, consists of 14 deputies. Four of them (one from each state) are elected by the population every four years, the remaining 10 deputies are elected for a two-year term (in proportion to the number of residents of the states (Chuuk - 5, Pohnpei - 3, Yap and Kosrae - one deputy each). Based on the election results 1999 Leo A. Falk became the president of the country, and Redley Kilion became the vice president. The president appoints the cabinet of ministers. There are no political parties in the FSM. The military protection of the FSM is provided by the United States.
The FSM is a member of the UN (since 1991), as well as a number of regional organizations, such as the Pacific Forum.
Formalities and rules for entry into Micronesia
Visas to Micronesia
For tourist trips to Micronesia for up to 30 days, a visa is not required. It is worth noting that the 30-day period begins to count again every time the tourist moves to another island group. When crossing the border, you must present a passport valid for at least 120 days from the end of the trip.
Customs regulations in Micronesia
The import of food products that have not passed special sanitary and hygienic control is prohibited. Fruits, vegetables, wood products, plants and seeds are subject to inspection. The export of samples of state-protected plants and animals, eggs and stuffed birds, as well as items made of leather, bone, bird feathers, shells and corals is prohibited.
ECONOMY
Gross domestic product (GDP) in 1989 was the highest in the history of the FSM and was estimated at $145 million, or $1,465 per capita (ranging from $2,107 in Yap to $1,056 in Chuuk). Since then, there has been a steady decline in this indicator.
Agriculture is the most important sector of the economy, providing 60% of the food the country needs and employment of almost 50% of the working population all year round or at least during agricultural work. The country is dominated by traditional semi-subsistence farming, which mainly uses manual labor. They grow coconut palm, breadfruit, pandanus, yams, sweet potatoes, cassava, bananas, taro, citrus fruits, papaya, mango, chocolate tree, pepper (black and betel) and other crops. In addition, goats, sheep and buffalo are raised on Pohnpei. Some agricultural products are exported, mainly coconut products. Its shell is used by the population as fuel. In Yap, brooms, brushes, ropes and mats are made from coconut shell fibers. The coconut palm forms the basis of life for the islanders. In traditional life, coconut palm leaves were used for roofing, weaving mats, baskets, fans, and the nut kernel was used as a valuable food product.
Citrus fruits are grown in Kosrae, bananas, vegetables, fruits, and betel pepper are grown in Yap. The cultivation of black pepper on the island of Pohnpei is acquiring a plantation character (40 hectares of land are allocated for it). The chocolate tree is cultivated on the islands of Chuuk, Pohnpei and Yap.
In recent years, the role of fishing in the country's economy has been increasing, since ocean resources within the maritime economic zone (2.6 million sq. km) are the property of the FSM. Licensed fishing in FSM waters is carried out by Japan, Taiwan, South Korea, Mexico and the USA. The approximate market value of tuna caught annually is approx. $200 million
The Micronesian Maritime Department and the National Fisheries Corporation were created to regulate the protection and exploitation of marine resources within the FSM maritime economic zone, support the development of marine fisheries and the priority of domestic fisheries. The Micronesian Maritime Academy operates in Yap, training personnel for the development of fisheries.
Foreign tourism is developing in the FSM. Every year the country is visited by approx. 25 thousand tourists, mainly from Australia and Japan. The main export items are copra (more than 50% of the export value), pepper (black and betel), fish (mainly tuna), trochus shells, coconut derivatives (edible and cosmetic oil, soap, creams), and local handicrafts. Export income amounts to 13-15 million dollars per year. FSM imports up to 40% of food products, industrial goods, cars and other machinery, and petroleum products. FSM foreign trade is characterized by a significant predominance of imports over exports.
The FSM budget consists of taxes, exports of agricultural products, seafood, and licensing of tuna fishing by foreign countries in the FSM marine economic zone. The FSM's main trading partner is the USA. In addition, the Compact of "Free Association" with the United States provided a package of financial assistance that contributed to the FSM's economic progress and guaranteed the sustainability of democracy in the country. On November 3, 1996, the last five-year agreement on US financial assistance was signed. According to it, the volume of assistance in 1996-2001 was reduced to 40 million dollars per year (in 1986 - 60 million dollars, in 1991-1996 - 51 million dollars). Other donor countries (Japan, China, Australia) also have FSM assistance programs, but they are significantly less than US investments.
SOCIETY AND CULTURE
Education. According to the FSM constitution, education is financed from the central and regional budgets. Primary and secondary schools are owned by the state and religious missions. State governments provide basic education and teacher training, while central governments support and coordinate education at all levels. Young people receive vocational education at the Micronesian College in Palikir (opened in 1972, with faculties of business, pedagogy, applied arts, etc.), the Micronesian Vocational Center on the island of Kosrae, in the schools of agriculture and trade on Pohnpei, the Javier High School on Chuuk, and also in educational institutions in the USA (on the mainland, Guam and the Hawaiian Islands).
Healthcare. Medical care to the population is provided in full by state medical institutions. True, in recent years private dental and medical practice has appeared on Pohnpei. The FSM government recruits doctors for the Public Health Program through the US National Health Service and the UN Development Program. It also implements various health, nutrition and sanitation programs of the World Health Organization (WHO), the United Nations International Children's Fund (UNICEF) and the South Pacific Commission (SPAC). There are hospitals in every state, several dispensaries and more than 100 outpatient clinics operate in the country. In difficult cases, patients are sent to hospitals on Guam and the Hawaiian Islands.
Culture. The traditional culture of the FSM population is pan-Micronesian (with the exception of the culture of the two Polynesian atolls Nukuoro and Kapingamarangi). However, it has undergone significant changes over several centuries of foreign domination. But even today on many islands there are houses of local pillar construction without walls, the function of which is performed by gable roofs reaching to the ground, covered with palm leaves or mats. Micronesians still master the art of making wooden boats without a single metal nail. Leaders play a significant role in the public life of the FSM. Perhaps the culture of the Yapese remained the most conservative (folklore, dancing, houses on stone foundations under palm leaves, loincloths for men and fluffy skirts made of plant fibers for women).
Intensive contacts in recent decades with Western world changed the mentality of the younger generation of FSM citizens, who are no longer guided by traditional values, but strive to join the achievements of Western civilization.
Tips and advice for traveling to Micronesia
Tips and prices
Tipping ranges from 10% to 15% on Pohnpei, but despite American influence, it is practically not used elsewhere in the country. Most goods are sold at fixed prices, although there are several markets where you can bargain.
Communications and communications in Micronesia
Internet
There is information about the availability of a provider providing Internet access. According to the latest data, the situation with obtaining access can be clarified by e-mail:[email protected]
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cellular
The local operator FSM Telecommunications Corporation operates in the GSM 900 band. Roaming is not yet available to subscribers of Russian operators. Thuraya satellite communications operate in this area.
| Money in Micronesia |
Sights of Micronesia
The term "Micronesia" means "small islands", and this absolutely accurately reflects the essence of this country. Although the islands are firmly tied to the economic and political interests of the United States, Micronesia stubbornly follows its traditional path - a country where people sport loincloths and stone coins are still used as a means of payment. Micronesians are very proud of their past, especially since they have every right to be - their ancestors crossed the Pacific Ocean in fragile canoes long before Europeans entered these waters. The islands have some of the best diving, snorkeling and surfing conditions in the world, and are seen as a potential international hub for beach holidays and water sports. The waters around the islands are filled with many forms of spectacular marine life. There are a large number of species of hard and soft corals, anemones, sponges, fish, dolphins and shellfish, including the giant clam Tridacna. Large pods of whales pass through these waters every year. Several species of sea turtle lay eggs on these shores, and islanders are allowed to use both turtle meat and eggs for food. The islands are also home to more than 200 species of seabirds.
Kosrae Island (Kosrae) is one of the least spoiled and least developed areas in Micronesia, a quiet and laid-back place that maintains an aura of pristineness. The main island has an area of 109 square meters. km. and volcanic interior with wild tropical forests, ancient barrier reef and a beautiful coastline that is formed by a combination of sandy beaches and mangrove swamps. The people are quite sparse and quite unassuming and given that they usually never have contact with more than a dozen visitors at a time, the islanders still show a friendly interest in tourists. Impressive ancient ruins on a nearby island Lelu date back to the 14th century, when the chieftain of Kosrae was the dominant regional ruler. Although the outskirts of the massive royal castle-city have been destroyed, the remaining ruins still give a sense of the power and grandeur of the ancient city, which can only be realized after the many hours of travel through the dense jungle that would be required to do so.
Lelu Hill, highest point island, has a whole cluster of caves and tunnels used by the Japanese during the Second World War. The island of Kosrae itself has completely pristine coral reefs close to shore that are suitable for diving and easily accessible by boat. Underwater visibility here often exceeds 30 m, and in summer often more than 60 m. Underwater cave Blue Hole ("Blue Hole") in Lelu is inhabited by colonies of corals, stingrays and barracudas. The south is a good place to dive - Hiroshi Point, which is famous for its beautiful soft corals and the gathering place for schools of hammerhead sharks. An American reconnaissance plane lies on the bottom 20 meters from the entrance to Lelu Harbor. Two Japanese ships and several whaling ships also sank nearby.
Pohnpei Island With its lush vegetation, jungle-covered mountain slopes and blooming hibiscus, it most closely matches the typical image of the southern island, although excess humidity spoils this picture somewhat. The main and most big Island in Micronesia, it has an area of 334 square meters. km. This is an almost rectangular island, framed by picturesque bays and narrow peninsulas. The island's coastline is formed mainly by tidal beaches and mangroves, but there are also many small islands with beautiful lagoon beaches between the island itself and the surrounding reefs.
The main city of the island is Colony, a relatively large settlement by island standards, still retains a colorful provincial character. small town Palikir, located just 8 km. nearby, is the capital of Micronesia. Pohnpei Airport and most of the island's hotels and restaurants are located in Kolonia.
Ancient stone city Nan Madol, lying on nearly 100 artificial islets off the southeast coast of Pohnpei, is Micronesia's finest archaeological site. Nan Madol was built from colossal basalt blocks during the period of a tyrannical dynasty Saudeler, which reached its peak in the 13th century. Nan Duvas- the largest, still standing, part of the city, the outer walls of which reached 8 meters in height, and contained crypts on the inside. Although many of Nan Madol's temples, vaults, and reservoirs have been destroyed, the entire colossal, semi-legendary city still has great dramatic impact. The most famous natural monument of Pohnpei is the picturesque rock Sohes Rock(180 m), a basalt cliff that resembles a human face.
Chuuk Island (formerly Truk) very colorful, with a lively and quite “rough” coastline. Chuuk has 15 main islands, 92 outer islands and more than 80 lagoon islets. His biggest assets are sunken ships and planes from the Second World War. All over the world they know about "underwater museum" Chuuk- the entire Japanese fleet lies at the bottom of this lagoon, this is evidence of the greatest naval disaster in history. Each ship lies in the same form in which “death” found it - some are upright, some are completely intact, others are only partially preserved. Some of the transports were filled with weapons, trucks and fighter planes; team members also remained buried at sea.
The main activity in Veno, the main town on the island, - watching the sunrise over the island Faychuk in the western lagoon or the usual beach pastime. Most hotels are located in Veno, but there are also stylish local-style houses on other islands.
Yap Island- The land of giant stone money, the most traditional area in Micronesia. Yap consists of four islands - Yap, Tomil-Gagil, Map and Rumung. Unlike the other "high" islands in the country, which are volcanic in origin, Yap was formed by the uplift of a section of the Asian continental plate shelf. Hence the peculiar landscape of the island - more hills and plains than mountains and valleys. Of the 134 outer islands, many are just tiny pieces of shore made of coral and sand, barely rising above the surface of the water. The island's communities are linked by old stone footpaths (some estimated to be centuries old), and village buildings are still constructed in the intricate traditional style of timber, thatch, rope and bamboo. It is a society with a strong caste system, where village elders and chiefs still have so much influence that they easily challenge the decisions of elected officials, and stone money is still used for some traditional transactions.
Please note that residents of Yap are very offended if a tourist points cameras at them ( taboo), although they are very friendly and receptive to travelers who respect their customs and culture. Most people have already adopted the Western style of clothing, but in everyday life, almost everyone, especially children, wear bright colored loincloths, and some of the women only wear woven skirts made from hibiscus leaf fibers. Almost every resident is constantly “busy” chewing betel.
Nukuoro Atoll- a real “shelter” for lovers of loneliness. One of Pohnpei's outer atolls, it contains 42 tiny islets that form an almost perfect circle around a lagoon 6 kilometers in diameter. The Polynesian people of the atoll are very welcoming, making it a great place to relax, or to spend some time just walking around the shore, searching for seashells and playing with the island's children. There is a small guesthouse right on the pier. There is no airport, and a passenger ship arrives only once a month.
Woleai Atoll, one of Yap's outer islands, is famous for its patriarchal simple lifestyle, friendly people and beautiful beaches. Its approximately 800 inhabitants live on just five of Woleai's 22 islets, some of which are clustered together and connected only by sandbars. Woleai "holds fast" to its traditional ways: canoes dominate motor boats and there are certain rules against wearing T-shirts, pants, baseball caps and other Western clothing. While foreign visitors are freed from any instructions and prohibitions, this helps to perceive the traditions and way of life of the islanders. Formally, there are no commercial hotels or guesthouses to stay at. long term, but it is usually easy to arrange accommodation for any period of time with local residents. Woleai is accessible by plane from Yap or by slow and circuitous boat from the capital. Permission is required to visit Woleai and the other outer islands of Yap: make a request to the Special Assistant for External Island Affairs in Colonia or Yap at least one month in advance of the visit.
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general information
The largest islands of Micronesia are of volcanic origin (height up to 791 m), surrounded by coral reefs. The climate is equatorial and subequatorial. Precipitation ranges from 2250 mm to 3000-4500 and 6000 mm (in the mountains on the island of Kusape) per year. The part of the Pacific Ocean where Micronesia is located is an area where typhoons occur (on average there are 25 typhoons per year). The islands are covered with evergreen tropical forests and savannas; The coral islands are dominated by coconut palm and pandanus.
Since the seventeenth century, the Caroline Islands belonged to Spain. In 1898, Spain sold them to Germany. In 1914, the islands were captured by Japan, and during the Second World War they were occupied by US troops, who began to administer them under a UN mandate. In 1978, the Caroline Islands received the status of a “freely associated territory with the United States.” In 1979, the constitution of the Federated States of Micronesia was adopted.
The basis of Micronesia's economy is fishing, copra production, and vegetable growing. Cattle, pigs, and goats are raised on the islands. To develop its fishing zone, Micronesia cooperates with the USA, Australia, Japan, South Korea. Every year, 25 thousand tourists visit Micronesia, mainly from Australia and Japan. The length of asphalt roads is 226 km. Half of the export consists of copra; pepper, fish, handicrafts, and coconut oil are also exported. The main foreign trade partners are the USA and Japan. Micronesia receives significant cash subsidies from the United States and monetary unit uses the American dollar.
Culture
The traditional culture of the population of the Federated States of Micronesia is pan-Micronesian (with the exception of the culture of the two Polynesian atolls of Nukuoro and Kapingamarangi). However, it has undergone significant changes over several centuries of foreign domination. But even today on many islands there are houses of local pillar construction without walls, the function of which is performed by gable roofs reaching to the ground, covered with palm leaves or mats. Micronesians still master the art of making wooden boats without a single metal nail. Leaders play a significant role in the public life of the FSM. Perhaps the culture of the Yapese remained the most conservative (folklore, dancing, houses on stone foundations under palm leaves, loincloths for men and fluffy skirts made of plant fibers for women).
Intensive contacts in recent decades with the Western world have changed the mentality of the younger generation of Micronesian citizens, who are no longer guided by traditional values, but strive to join the achievements of Western civilization.
Story
The ancestors of the Micronesians settled the Caroline Islands more than 4 thousand years ago. Over the centuries, two social groups emerged in Micronesian society - the “noble” and the “common”; the former did not engage in physical labor and differed from the latter in their special tattoos and jewelry. The territorial associations were headed by chiefs (tomol), but their power was not the same on different islands. On about. Temen (Pohnpei State) remains discovered ancient civilization- stone city of Nan-Madol. It consisted of monumental structures erected on reefs - platforms made of coral rubble and lined with basalt slabs. Residential and temple complexes, buried the dead and performed various rituals. According to legends, the city was the center of the vast Saudeler power and was destroyed by the conquerors, after which Pohnpei split into five territorial entities. Similar monuments were found on the island. Lelu (Kosrae state). On the island of Yap in later times, there apparently existed a centralized state entity that had economic and religious functions. Tribute was collected from conquered tribes. The first Europeans found on Yap one- and two-tier platforms with temples and men's houses, as well as peculiar money in the form of large stone disks with a hole in the center.
The Caroline Islands were discovered by European navigators in the 16th and 17th centuries. In 1526, di Menezighi discovered the Yap Islands, and in 1528, Alvaro Saavedra first saw the Truk Islands (modern Chuuk). In 1685, Captain Francisco Lazeano rediscovered the island of Yap and named the island Caroline (after King Charles II of Spain). Later this name was transferred to the entire archipelago, which was declared the possession of the Spanish crown. However, the discovery of its islands continued in subsequent years. The first Spanish Catholic missionaries, arriving in 1710 on the Sonsorol Islands and in 1731 on Ulithi Atoll, were killed by the islanders, and the Spanish abandoned attempts to colonize the Caroline Islands until the 1870s.
From the end of the 18th century. Commercial and scientific British, French and even Russian ships began to visit the archipelago. Thus, in 1828, the Russian navigator F.P. Litke discovered the islands of Ponape (Pohnpei), Ant and Pakin and named them in honor of Admiral D.N. Senyavin. Since 1830, American whalers have often visited here. In the 1820s and 1830s, Pohnpei was home to British sailors who were shipwrecked while carrying an English missionary to Kosrae. In 1852, American evangelists founded a Protestant mission on the islands of Pohnpei and Kosrae. German and English traders began to penetrate the archipelago.
In 1869, Germany founded a trading station on Yap, which became the center of German trading network in Micronesia and Samoa. In 1885, the German authorities announced their claims to the Caroline Islands, which Spain considered its own. Thanks to the mediation of the Pope, a German-Spanish treaty was concluded, recognizing the archipelago as Spanish possession, but giving German traders the right to create trading posts and plantations on them. Spanish soldiers and missionaries arrived on the islands, but they met fierce resistance on Pohnpei. The islanders rebelled and destroyed plantations.
After losing the war with the United States, Spain agreed in 1898 to cede the Caroline and Mariana Islands to Germany. From 1906 they were controlled from German New Guinea. The German colonial authorities introduced universal labor service for adult islanders and began extensive road construction. In response, the people of Pohnpei rebelled and killed Governor Beder. The uprising was suppressed by the German fleet only in 1911. In the fall of 1914, Micronesia was occupied Japanese troops.
Officially, Japan received a mandate from the League of Nations to govern Micronesia only in 1921. It used the territory of the Caroline Islands for economic purposes (fishing, production of cassava flour and alcohol from sugar cane), to create naval and air force bases. Japan pursued a policy of forced assimilation towards the indigenous population. Tens of thousands of Japanese were resettled on the islands, and the best lands were given to them. Japanese settlements emerged. Traces of Japanese domination were preserved in the appearance of the Carolinians, in their language and names.
Since 1944, bloody battles began on the islands between American and Japanese troops. By 1945, Japanese forces had been expelled from Micronesia, the archipelago came under US military control, and in 1947 the Caroline Islands (along with the Marianas and Marshall Islands) became a US-administered UN trust territory, the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands (TPIS). In 1947–1951 The territory was administered by the US Department of the Navy, then transferred to the control of the civil administration of the US Department of the Interior. In 1962, administrative authorities were moved from Guam to Saipan (Mariana Islands). In 1961, the Council of Micronesia was created, but all power remained in the hands of the American High Commissioner. In 1965, the first elections to the Micronesian Congress took place. In 1967, Congress created the Future Political Status Commission, which recommended seeking independence or a "free association" relationship with the United States with full internal self-government. Since 1969, negotiations have been held between representatives of the Congress of Micronesia and the United States.
On July 12, 1978, the population of Truk (Chuuk), Ponape (Pohnpei), Yap and Kusaie (Kosrae) counties voted in a referendum for the creation of the Federated States of Micronesia. The Marianas, Marshall Islands and Palau refused to join the new state. On May 10, 1979, the FSM Constitution was adopted, and in the fall the first elections to the National Congress, as well as the governors of four states, were held. The president of the country was the former president of the Congress of Micronesia, Toshiwo Nakayama, who took office in January 1980.
During 1979–1986 The United States has consistently transferred management functions to a new head of state and government. Issues of foreign policy and defense of the FSM remained the prerogative of the United States. In 1983, the population approved the status of “free association” with the United States in a referendum. On November 3, 1985, the PTTO was officially dissolved and the US trusteeship regime ended. On December 22, 1990, the UN Security Council approved the abolition of trusteeship and the FSM became an officially independent state.
In 1991, Micronesian President John Haglelgam (1987–1991), who lost the parliamentary elections, resigned as head of state. In 1991–1996 Bailey Alter (Pohnpei State) served as President from 1996–1999. – Jacob Nena (Kosrae State), 1999–2003 – Leo Amy Falkam, and since 2003 – Joseph John Urusemal. A draft constitutional amendment that would have provided for direct elections of the president and vice president was rejected.
The main problems of the country remain high level unemployment, declining fish catches and high dependence on American aid.
