Fiji

A South Pacific Island Nation of Turquoise Waters, Cultural Harmony, and Resilience

Fiji, officially the Republic of Fiji, is an archipelago of more than 330 islands (of which about 110 are inhabited), located in the South Pacific Ocean. It is famed for its white-sand beaches, coral reefs, multicultural society, and strong traditions of community-based living. As a regional leader in the Pacific, Fiji plays a crucial role in climate advocacy, tourism, and regional diplomacy.

Formation and Historical Background

  • First settled around 3500 years ago by Austronesian peoples.

  • Later influenced by Melanesian, Polynesian, and European cultures.

  • Became a British colony in 1874 and gained independence on October 10, 1970.

  • Has experienced multiple coups since 1987 due to ethnic-political tensions.

  • Transitioned to full democracy in 2014 under a new constitution.

Administrative Information

Attribute Details
Country Name Republic of Fiji
Capital Suva
Continent Oceania (Melanesia, Pacific)
Official Languages English, Fijian, Fiji Hindi
Currency Fijian Dollar (FJD)
Area Approx. 18,300 sq. km
Population Approx. 940,000 (2025 est.)
Time Zone Fiji Time (UTC+12), DST UTC+13
ISO Code FJ
Internet TLD .fj
Calling Code +679

Religious Affiliation (Estimated)

Religion Population Share
Christianity (mainly Methodist) ~64%
Hinduism ~27%
Islam ~6%
Other / Unaffiliated ~3%

Government and Leadership

Position Current Officeholder (as of 2025)
President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka
Government Type Parliamentary republic
Legislature Unicameral – Parliament of Fiji
Judiciary Supreme Court, High Court, Magistrates

Administrative Divisions (Divisions & Provinces)

Fiji is divided into 4 divisions, each comprising multiple provinces:

  • Central Division – includes Suva; Provinces: Naitasiri, Rewa, Serua, Namosi, Tailevu

  • Western Division – Provinces: Ba, Nadroga-Navosa, Ra

  • Northern Division – Provinces: Bua, Cakaudrove, Macuata

  • Eastern Division – Provinces: Kadavu, Lau, Lomaiviti, Rotuma (with autonomy)

Each province has a Provincial Council led by chiefs and elected representatives.

Local Government Structure

  • Urban centers governed by municipal councils and mayors (appointed).

  • Village chiefs (Turaga ni Koro) play a major role in rural and indigenous governance.

  • Emphasis on traditional authority, customary land management, and communal living.

Leadership & Governance

Fiji emphasizes multiracial unity, democratic restoration, and climate action.
Key priorities include:

  • Land and water rights protection

  • Empowerment of indigenous iTaukei and Indo-Fijian communities

  • International climate leadership (especially for small island states)

  • Digital public services and education reforms

Law Enforcement & Safety

  • Primary agencies:

    • Fiji Police Force

    • Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) – plays a role in disaster response

    • Immigration and Customs

  • Fiji remains one of the safest Pacific countries, with strong emphasis on community policing and gender-based violence prevention.

Economy & Industry

  • Key industries:

    • Tourism – beaches, diving, eco-resorts

    • Sugarcane & agriculture – sugar, kava, coconut

    • Water bottling – Fiji Water is a global brand

    • Fisheries and gold mining

  • GDP (2024 est.): Approx. USD 5.1 billion

  • GDP per capita: ~USD 5,400

  • Economic focus: climate-resilient infrastructure, green energy, and small business growth

Education & Institutions

  • Free education up to Year 13 (Form 7)

  • Multilingual curriculum: English, Fijian, Hindi

  • Major institutions:

    • University of the South Pacific (USP) – regional university headquartered in Suva

    • Fiji National University (FNU)

    • University of Fiji

  • Focus on TVET, climate education, and digital skills development

Healthcare

  • Publicly funded healthcare system with regional hospitals and rural clinics

  • Major hospitals:

    • Colonial War Memorial Hospital (CWM), Suva

    • Lautoka Hospital

    • Labasa Hospital

  • Health priorities:

    • Non-communicable diseases (NCDs), maternal care, climate-related health

    • Partnership with WHO and NGOs for health access equity

Transport & Connectivity

  • Airports:

    • Nadi International Airport (main gateway)

    • Nausori Airport (Suva domestic/international)

  • Ferries and boats connect islands

  • Road network centered in Viti Levu; remote areas still face access challenges

  • Telecom and broadband improving with satellite and fiber expansion

Tourism & Attractions

Natural:

  • Coral Coast, Yasawa Islands, Mamanuca Islands

  • Taveuni – the “Garden Island”

  • Great Astrolabe Reef – world-class diving

Cultural:

  • Firewalking ceremonies, Meke (traditional dance)

  • Hindu temples (e.g., Sri Siva Subramaniya, Nadi)

  • Fiji Museum, traditional villages, warrior culture

Tourism focus: Luxury resorts, ecotourism, cultural immersion

Culture & Lifestyle

  • Ethnic Groups: iTaukei (indigenous Fijians) ~56%, Indo-Fijians ~37%, others ~7%

  • Languages: English, Fijian, Fiji Hindi

  • Cuisine: Lovo (earth oven), fish curry, cassava, coconut-based dishes

  • Celebrations: Diwali, Hibiscus Festival, Fiji Day

  • Sports: Rugby union is a national passion (Olympic gold medalists)

Summary

Fiji is a vibrant island nation that blends natural beauty, cultural harmony, and regional leadership. With its global voice on climate change, and an economy driven by tourism, agriculture, and community strength, Fiji remains a jewel of the Pacific.