| Introduction | In 1979 the Federated States of Micronesia, a UN Trust Territory under US administration, adopted a constitution. In 1986 independence was attained under a Compact of Free Association with the US, which was amended and renewed in 2004. Present concerns include large-scale unemployment, overfishing, and overdependence on US aid. |
| Population | Population: 107,154 Population growth rate: -0.284% Life expectancy: 71.23 years |
| Geography | The Federated States of Micronesia is an island group in the North Pacific Ocean, about three-quarters of the way from Hawaii to Indonesia. The islands vary geologically from high mountainous islands to low, coral atolls; volcanic outcroppings on Pohnpei, Kosrae, and Chuuk. |
| Religion | Roman Catholic 52.7%, Congregational 40.1%, Baptist 0.9%, Seventh-Day Adventist 0.7%, other 3.8%, none or unspecified 0.8% (2000 Census) |
| Government | Government type: constitutional government in free association with the US. Chief of state: President Emanuel MORI (since 11 May 2007); Vice President Alik L. ALIK (since 11 May 2007); note - the president is both the chief of state and head of government Head of government: President Emanuel MORI (since 11 May 2007); Vice President Alik L. ALIK (since 11 May 2007) Cabinet: Cabinet includes the vice president and the heads of the 8 executive departments Elections: president and vice president elected by Congress from among the four senators at large for a four-year term (eligible for a second term); election last held on 11 May 2007 (next to be held in May 2011); note - a proposed constitutional amendment to establish popular elections for president and vice president failed. |
| Economics | GDP (purchasing power parity) $238.1 million Economic activity consists primarily of subsistence farming and fishing. The islands have few mineral deposits worth exploiting, except for high-grade phosphate. The potential for a tourist industry exists, but the remote location, a lack of adequate facilities, and limited air connections hinder development. The country's medium-term economic outlook appears fragile due not only to the reduction in US assistance but also to the current slow growth of the private sector. |
| Health | The Federated States of Micronesia citizens enjoy a level of health care which is high in comparison to the rest of the Pacific Region, thanks largely to the focus on this area by the US during the Trusteeship. Under the Compact, FSM Governments have maintained that standard, as indicated by current mortality statistics. The US Public Health Service provides doctors at the four State hospitals, and Micronesians are taking their place in the system through such programs as the Medical Officer Training Program in Pohnpei. Certain emergency cases are referred to hospitals in Guam and Hawaii. Volunteer groups of physicians in the United States visit FSM on a regular basis to perform specialized services in such areas as reconstructive surgery. |
| Legislation | http://www.paclii.org/databases.html#FM |
| Related Websites | The World Factbook - Federated States of Micronesia UNICEF - Federated States of Micronesia World Health Organization - Federated States of Micronesia |