Political Overview

Palau is a presidential republic in free association with the United States under the Compact of Free Association, which took effect when Palau gained full sovereignty on October 1, 1994. The President of Palau serves as both head of state and head of government, elected every four years by popular vote. Palau maintains a bicameral legislature the Senate and the House of Delegates whose members represent Palauan states and serve four-year terms. Although it forges its own foreign policy and is a member of the United Nations, Palau relies on the U.S. for defense, and U.S. financial assistance plays a significant role in its national budget.

Cultural Heritage and Identity

Palauan culture is rooted in ancient Micronesian traditions, characterized by matrilineal clans and strong community bonds. Indigenous beliefs in spirits of the natural world coexist alongside Christianity, introduced by European missionaries in the 19th century. Traditional practices such as “bul” (a taboo system governing resource use) and the art of canoe building and navigation remain central to Palauan identity. Palauan is the national language, while English is widely used in government and education, reflecting the country’s commitment to preserving its heritage while engaging globally.

Geographical Landscape, Area, and Climate

Situated in the western Pacific Ocean, the Republic of Palau encompasses approximately 340 islands spread over some 459 km² of land, forming part of the Caroline Islands chain. The terrain ranges from rugged volcanic islands in the north to the famed limestone Rock Islands in the south, where dense jungles give way to pristine lagoons. Palau enjoys a tropical rainforest climate, with average temperatures around 27 °C (81 °F) year-round and a pronounced rainy season from May to November. While typhoons are relatively rare compared to other Pacific regions, heavy rainfall and occasional storms shape the islands’ lush ecosystems.