Verified Facts
The population of Wallis and Futuna is approximately 11,620 people, with a unique blend of Polynesian and French cultural influences.
Quick Facts
Population Overview
The population of Wallis and Futuna is relatively small, with a total of approximately 11,620 people, according to the latest estimates. The population growth rate is slow, at around 0.3% per year, which is largely due to a low fertility rate and a significant proportion of the population migrating to other countries, such as France and New Caledonia, in search of better economic opportunities. The population is mostly urban, with around 60% of people living in the capital city of Mata-Utu and other urban areas. The population density is relatively high, at 82 people per square kilometer, which can put pressure on the territory's limited resources.
The population of Wallis and Futuna has been relatively stable over the past few decades, with some fluctuations due to migration and fertility rates. However, the territory's population is expected to continue growing slowly, driven by a relatively high total fertility rate and improvements in healthcare and living standards. The government of Wallis and Futuna, in association with France, has implemented various policies to support population growth and development, including investments in education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
The urbanization trend in Wallis and Futuna is also significant, with many young people moving to the capital city of Mata-Utu in search of better job opportunities and access to services. However, this trend also poses challenges, such as overcrowding and strain on resources, which the government is working to address through investments in urban planning and infrastructure development.
Ethnic Groups
| Ethnic Group | Percentage | Region | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wallisian | 80% | Wallis Island | Polynesian ethnicity |
| Futunian | 15% | Futuna Island | Polynesian ethnicity |
| French | 3% | Mata-Utu | European ethnicity |
| Other Pacific Islanders | 1% | Various | Melanesian and Micronesian ethnicities |
| Other | 1% | Various | Asian and other ethnicities |
The population of Wallis and Futuna is predominantly Polynesian, with the Wallisian and Futunian ethnic groups making up around 95% of the total population. The Wallisian and Futunian people have a rich cultural heritage, with their own languages, customs, and traditions. The French ethnic group, which includes people of European descent, makes up a small but significant proportion of the population, particularly in the capital city of Mata-Utu. The territory's ethnic diversity is also reflected in the presence of other Pacific Islanders, including people from Melanesian and Micronesian backgrounds, as well as smaller groups of Asian and other ethnicities.
Languages
- French is the official language of Wallis and Futuna, and is widely spoken in government, education, and formal settings.
- Wallisian is the most widely spoken indigenous language, and is spoken by around 80% of the population.
- Futunian is spoken by around 15% of the population, primarily on Futuna Island.
- Other Pacific languages, including Melanesian and Micronesian languages, are also spoken by smaller groups of people.
- English is becoming increasingly popular as a second language, particularly among young people and those in the tourism industry.
Religions
| Religion | Percentage | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Roman Catholic | 90% | Dominant religion, introduced by French missionaries |
| Protestant | 5% | Minority religion, with several denominations |
| Other Christian | 3% | Includes other Christian denominations and sects |
| Traditional | 1% | Indigenous spiritual practices and traditions |
| Other | 1% | Includes non-Christian religions and secular beliefs |
The population of Wallis and Futuna is predominantly Christian, with around 90% of people identifying as Roman Catholic. The Catholic Church has a significant presence in the territory, and plays an important role in the community. The Protestant and other Christian denominations also have a presence, although they are less prominent. Traditional spiritual practices and indigenous beliefs are still observed by some people, particularly in rural areas. The territory's religious diversity is also reflected in the presence of smaller groups of people who practice other non-Christian religions, such as Buddhism and Islam.
Age Distribution
| Age Group | Percentage | Implications |
|---|---|---|
| 0-14 | 25% | Dependent population, requiring education and healthcare services |
| 15-24 | 20% | Young adults, seeking education and employment opportunities |
| 25-54 | 45% | Working-age population, contributing to the economy and society |
| 55-64 | 6% | Older working-age population, nearing retirement |
| 65+ | 4% | Elderly population, requiring healthcare and social support |
Urbanization & Major Cities
- The capital city of Mata-Utu is the largest urban center, with around 60% of the population living in the city and its surrounding areas.
- Leava and Vailala are other significant urban centers, with growing populations and economic activities.
- The urban population is growing rapidly, driven by migration from rural areas and the attraction of better job opportunities and services.
- The territory's urbanization trend is also driven by the growth of the diaspora community, with many Wallisians and Futunians living and working abroad, particularly in France and New Caledonia.
- The government is working to address the challenges posed by urbanization, including overcrowding, poverty, and strain on resources, through investments in urban planning, infrastructure development, and social services.