Maldives

Maldives. The Republic of Maldives is a sovereign archipelago nation located in the Indian Ocean, southwest of Sri Lanka and India. It is the smallest Asian country by both land area and population, comprising a chain of 26 natural atolls spread over roughly 90,000 square kilometers. The nation is renowned globally for its stunning coral reefs, white-sand beaches, and luxury tourism resorts, though it faces significant threats from sea level rise due to climate change.

Geography

The nation consists of a double chain of 26 atolls, composed of over 1,000 coral islands, situated atop the Chagos-Laccadive Ridge. Its highest natural point, on the island of Villingili, is among the lowest in the world. The capital and most populous city is Malé, located on Malé Atoll. The tropical climate is heavily influenced by the Southwest monsoon and Northeast monsoon, with the surrounding Indian Ocean supporting diverse marine life including manta rays and whale sharks. The delicate ecosystem of its coral reefs is protected within several biosphere reserves, such as Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve.

History

Early settlers likely arrived from Sri Lanka and southern India, with the islands converted to Islam in 1153 AD by the visiting Sunni scholar Abul Barakat Yusuf al-Barbari. The region was historically a sultanate, with periods of influence from the Portuguese and the Dutch. It became a British protectorate in 1887, administered from Colombo in British Ceylon. Full independence was achieved in 1965, followed by the establishment of a republic in 1968 under President Ibrahim Nasir. The subsequent long presidency of Maumoon Abdul Gayoom ended with the nation's first multi-party presidential election in 2008, won by Mohamed Nasheed.

Government and politics

The country is a unitary presidential republic, with the President of the Maldives serving as both head of state and head of government. The People's Majlis is the unicameral legislature. The modern multi-party system features major political parties including the Maldivian Democratic Party and the Progressive Party of Maldives. The legal system is a unique blend of Sharia and English common law, administered by the Supreme Court of the Maldives. Foreign policy has historically balanced relations with India, China, and Saudi Arabia, with membership in the United Nations, the Commonwealth of Nations, and the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation.

Economy

The economy is dominated by tourism, which accounts for a significant portion of GDP and foreign exchange receipts, with major international resort chains operating across the atolls. Fishing remains a traditional and vital sector, with tuna being a key export. The nation has developed a growing financial services sector in Malé. Key infrastructure projects, often supported by foreign financing from countries like China and India, include the Sinamalé Bridge and the development of Velana International Airport. The country graduated from Least Developed Country status in 2011, but remains vulnerable to external economic shocks and environmental challenges.

Demographics and culture

The population is almost entirely ethnically Dhivehin, speaking the Dhivehi language, which has roots in Sinhalese and incorporates loanwords from Arabic. Islam is the state religion, and adherence to Sunni Islam is legally required for citizenship. Traditional culture includes Bodu Beru drumming and music, and craftsmanship in lacquerwork and mat weaving. The national holiday, Independence Day, commemorates freedom from British protection. The local cuisine is based on coconut, fish, and starches, featuring dishes like Mas huni.