Country Guides
Marshall Islands
Key Facts
Key Facts
Marshall Islands
Location
Western Pacific Ocean.
Time
GMT + 12.
Area
181.4 sq km (70 sq miles).
Population
61,815 (CIA 2007).
Population Density
298 per sq km.
Capital
Majuro. Population: 25,000 (UN estimate 2003).
Geography
The Marshall Islands consist of two almost parallel chains of atolls and islands, which lie west of the International Date Line. Majuro Atoll is 2,285km (1,428 miles) west of Honolulu, 1,624km (1,015 miles) east of Guam and 2,624km (1,641 miles) southeast of Tokyo. The eastern Ratak (Sunrise) Chain consists of 15 atolls and islands, and the western Ralik (Sunset) Chain consists of 16 atolls and islands. Together these two chains comprise 1,152 islands and islets dispersed over more than 1,900,000 sq km (500,000 sq miles) of the central Pacific.
Government
Republic since 1990. Gained self-governing status (in free association with the USA) in 1986.
Head of State
President Litokwa Tomeing, since 2008.
Recent History
President Litokwa Tomeing was elected in January 2008, replacing Kessai Note who served two terms since 2000.
Language
Marshallese and English are the official languages.
Religion
Christian, mostly Protestant.
Electricity
110 volts AC, 60Hz. Plugs are USA two-pin style.
Social Conventions
Informal dress is usual for both business and social occasions. Scanty clothing (including topless bathing) is considered offensive. Use of islands, paths, beaches etc may require permission in many areas; it is best to check locally.
Travel Partners
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