Population
304,032 as of 2021.
Official language
French
Languages spoken
While French is the official and mostly widely spoken, you'll also hear Tahitian and other Polynesian languages often.
Religion
54% of the population identify as Protestant, making Christianity the dominant religion, with the Maori Protestant Church as the largest denomination, encompassing more than 50% of the population. In addition to this, small religious communities exist, including Jehovah's Witnesses, Mormons and Seventh-day Adventists and there is also a minor Muslim presence on Tahiti.
National holiday
29th June - French Polynesia Autonomy Day, commemorating Tahitian and French Polynesian self-governance.
14th July - National Day
Holiday schedule
1st January: New Year's Day
5th March: Missionary Day
Late March to Early April: Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Easter Monday
1st May: International Worker's Day
8th May: Victory Day
Mid-May: Ascension Day
Late-May: Pentecost
Last Monday in May: Whit Monday
29th June: Autonomy Day
14th July: National Day
15th August: Assumption Day
1st November: All Saints' Day
11th November: Armistice Day
25th December: Christmas Day
History
Situated in the South Pacific Ocean, midway between Australia and South America, French Polynesia comprises a cluster of paradisical islands. Polynesians, who arrived around 200 BC, were the initial settlers, and the islands were later discovered by explores from Europe in the 16th century. In 1842, the islands fell under French protection, marking the commencement of an expanding French influence, and in 1880 they officially became a French Colony.
During World War II, the strategic significance of French Polynesia led to its utilisation as a key US military base in the Pacific, notably contributing to the Battle of Midway. Post-war, a gradual push for increased autonomy and self-governance in French Polynesia materialised. In 1958, the French government conceded a limited level of autonomy, culminating in full control granted to the islands in 1966. Nevertheless, tensions with the French government persisted. In 1984, a pro-independence movement emerged, gaining momentum over the years. In 1995 an independence referendum was conducted and narrowly lost. Today, French Polynesia is still an overseas territory of France enjoying a notable degree of autonomy.
Policy
French Polynesia operates as an overseas territory under French jurisdiction, affording it substantial autonomy while adhering to French law and policy. At the helm of the government stands the President of French Polynesia, who is responsible for steering policies related to economic development, social welfare, education and healthcare.
A pivotal policy focus for French Polynesia is economic development due to the country's relatively modest economy. The government actively seeks to attract investments, fostering growth in sectors like tourism, agriculture and fishing. Environmental conservation is another key policy domain, driven by the islands' rich biodiversity. Policies are in place to safeguard the natural environment, featuring initiatives such as establishing marine reserves and endorsing sustainable tourism practices.
The French government plays a substantial role in shaping policies, particularly concerning defence and foreign affairs. Hosting a crucial French military base, French Polynesia receives notable financial and logistical support from the French government. In recent years, there has been a surge in interest regarding French Polynesia's independence. Certain political factions and activists advocate for increased autonomy or complete independence. While the government implements policies to foster local culture and identity, the question of independence remains a contentious and divisive issue.
Food and drink
French Polynesia's cuisine is a delightful fusion of South Pacific and French influences. Seafood plays a starring role, and we particularly love poisson cru, a traditional Polynesian dish with raw fish marinated in a tangy lime juice and coconut milk sauce. For those craving heartier fare, fei (banana cooked in an earth oven) is a must. Paired with fish or meat, fei perfectly balances sweet and savoury flavours. The French culinary influence in French Polynesia is unmistakable, with local restaurants selling French bread, pastries, and delectable dishes like bouillabaisse and escargots.
Quench your thirst with refreshing coconut water and fresh fruit juice, or partake in the local brew, Hinano beer, crafted in Tahiti.
