Tuvalu Country Report
Tuvalu is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary democracy. Criminal activity, riots, and terrorism are not major concerns, but petty theft does occur. Although corruption is unlikely to have a significant impact on business activities, the influence of traditional local leaders can undermine the rule of law. Although significant earthquakes rarely occur in Tuvalu, it is at risk of tsunamis associated with large offshore earthquakes that occur elsewhere in the region. Although Tuvalu is regularly hit by hurricanes during the tropical cyclone season from November to April, it has historically experienced fewer hurricanes than other countries in the region. However, in recent years, the pattern of typical storms has changed, increasing the risk of landfall. In March 2015, Tuvalu suffered extensive infrastructure damage during the passage of Tropical Cyclone Pam, and long-term recovery efforts are underway.
Last updated: April 13, 2022
Security
Although criminal activity, riots and terrorism are not major concerns in Tuvalu, petty theft does occur. Although the risk is low, criminal activity is more common in Funafuti, especially in areas popular with international travelers. Civil unrest is rare, but demonstrations over political, economic, and labor issues occasionally occur, usually outside government buildings.
Last updated: May 16, 2022
Infrastructure
Although domestic air travel is generally considered safe, flights are unreliable and can experience significant delays.
Tuvalu’s road network is very limited. Funafuti’s main roads are paved, while roads on the other islands are usually unpaved.
Funafuti is the small but big port of Tuvalu. Relatively efficient.
Electricity and communication infrastructure are relatively good in urban centers but can be unreliable in remote areas. However, the country’s mobile phone network is limited to one provider.
The country is both less likely to sponsor a cyber attack and less likely to be the target of a cyber attack.
Last updated: September 1, 2023
Environment
Tuvalu has a temperate tropical climate with two regional seasons: a dry season from May to October and a rainy season from November to April. Although the country rarely experiences significant earthquakes, it is at risk of tsunamis associated with large offshore earthquakes that occur elsewhere in the region. Although Tuvalu is regularly hit by hurricanes during the tropical cyclone season from November to April, it has historically experienced fewer hurricanes than other countries in the region. However, in recent years, the pattern of typical storms has changed, increasing the risk of landfall. In March 2015, Tuvalu suffered extensive infrastructure damage during the passage of Tropical Cyclone Pam, and long-term recovery efforts are underway.
Last updated: March 17, 2022
Health and Medical
There are no major disease concerns in Tuvalu. However, medical care is limited and there is only one main hospital in Funafuti. Pharmacies are located in most major urban centers, but access to medications may be more limited in remote areas.
Last updated: September 8, 2023
Political
Tuvalu is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary democracy. Corruption is a significant concern and several officials have been convicted of corruption in recent years. Although the country’s judiciary is generally considered free from political interference, there are still areas where local leaders enjoy a degree of immunity.
Last updated: September 1, 2023
