- Population:
- 282,000
- Religion:
- Christianity
French Polynesia was settled by Polynesians and later colonized by France in the 19th century. It remains an overseas collectivity of France with a high degree of autonomy. The economy relies on tourism, pearl farming, and fishing.
French Polynesia is an overseas collectivity of France located in the South Pacific Ocean. It comprises more than 100 islands and atolls, stretching over an expanse of more than 2,000 kilometers. The total land area is approximately 4,167 square kilometers. As of January 2023, the population is around 279,020 people. The capital and largest city is Papeete, situated on the island of Tahiti. The official language is French, with Tahitian and other Polynesian languages also spoken. French Polynesia has a high degree of autonomy, with its own president and legislative assembly, although defense and foreign affairs remain under French control. The economy is driven by tourism, pearl farming, and fishing. The territory is renowned for its scenic beauty, including coral reefs, lagoons, and volcanic mountains.