Glossary

Kiribati is a country in Oceania. Due to the increasing sea level, this country will not exist anymore in about 50 years (estimation in 2012).

Because of the huge distances between the outer islands, Kiribati belongs to the largest countries in the world, but only if you include the maritime territory. After the realignment of the IDL (International Date Line) to have the same day in the whole territory, the most eastern island of Kiribati has a time of UTC+14. So, if you want to celebrate the very first New Year on Earth, you should go the Millennium Island of Kiribati, which switch to January, 1st at Dec, 31, 10am London Time (UTC). Or you celebrate it 4 hours later at 20:00 (8pm) Sydney Time or 14:00 UTC, where normally the New Year is welcomed.

This country is on position 130 (153, 170) in our monthly survey.

Bordering Areas (clockwise, starting in the north):

• Pacific

Weblinks

• Wikipedia
• Pictures from flickr about Kiribati
• Google Search for News about Kiribati
• Google Search for Pictures about Kiribati
• Qwant Search for web, social items and news about Kiribati
• Google Maps interactive (+StreetView) about Kiribati

Introduction

Kiribati is an island nation in the central Pacific Ocean, composed of 33 atolls and reef islands spread over 3.5 million square kilometers of ocean. Known for its unique geography and cultural richness, it is one of the few countries that straddles both the equator and the International Date Line. Kiribati is renowned for its pristine marine environments and its vulnerability to climate change.

Geography and Climate

Kiribati is divided into three island groups: the Gilbert Islands, the Phoenix Islands, and the Line Islands. Most of its islands are low-lying atolls, with the highest point being just a few meters above sea level. The climate is tropical, with warm temperatures year-round. The islands experience two seasons: a wet season from November to April and a dry season from May to October.

The exact timeline for Kiribati becoming uninhabitable due to rising sea levels is uncertain, as it depends on various factors such as the rate of global warming, ice sheet melting, and the effectiveness of global climate mitigation efforts. However, projections from climate scientists and international organizations provide some insights:

The Effects of Global Climate Change

• Vulnerability to Sea Level Rise:
  Kiribati is composed of 33 low-lying atolls and reef islands, with most land barely 1–2 meters (3–6 feet) above sea level. This makes the country highly vulnerable to even small increases in sea levels.
• Sea Level Rise Projections:
  Sea levels are rising at an average rate of about 3–4 mm per year globally, but in the Pacific region near Kiribati, this rate is accelerating due to regional variations. By 2100, sea levels could rise by 0.5 to 1 meter (1.6 to 3.3 feet), based on scenarios from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).

When Could Kiribati Become Uninhabitable?

1. Mid-21st Century:
   Many scientists estimate that by 2050, large parts of Kiribati could become uninhabitable due to:

   • Saltwater intrusion: Contaminating freshwater supplies and agricultural land.
   • Coastal erosion: Destroying homes, infrastructure, and ecosystems.
   • More frequent flooding: Higher tides and storm surges inundating the islands.

2. End of the Century (2100):
   If global emissions remain high and warming exceeds 2°C above pre-industrial levels, most or all of Kiribati’s land could be submerged or rendered uninhabitable by the end of the century.

3. Uncertain Timeline:
   Some islands might remain above water longer than others due to natural processes like coral growth, which can elevate atolls. However, rising seas, combined with increased storm intensity, will make life increasingly difficult.

Adaptation Efforts by Kiribati

Kiribati is actively preparing for the worst-case scenarios:

1. Land Purchase:
   In 2014, Kiribati purchased 20 square kilometers of land in Fiji as a potential relocation site for its population.

2. Climate Adaptation Projects:

   • Building sea walls and improving infrastructure to delay the effects of rising seas.
   • Exploring "floating islands" or other innovative engineering solutions.

3. Migration with Dignity:
   The government promotes skilled migration as a strategy to ensure its citizens can integrate into other countries if relocation becomes necessary.

Global Implications

The fate of Kiribati serves as a stark reminder of the global consequences of climate change:

• Without substantial reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, other low-lying nations and coastal areas worldwide will face similar threats.
• Efforts to limit warming to 1.5°C under the Paris Agreement could significantly delay or reduce the impact on Kiribati and other vulnerable nations.

Kiribati may face significant challenges within the next few decades, with some islands becoming uninhabitable as early as 2050. Without urgent global action on climate change, the eventual submergence of Kiribati by the end of the 21st century remains a real possibility. However, the resilience of its people and ongoing adaptation measures offer hope for a longer timeline.

History and Culture

Kiribati's history dates back thousands of years, with its indigenous Micronesian people establishing a rich oral tradition and cultural identity. The islands were colonized by the British in the 19th century and became the independent Republic of Kiribati in 1979. Traditional customs, or "te katei ni Kiribati," remain central to everyday life, with music, dance, and storytelling playing significant roles.

Cultural highlights include:

• Mwaneaba: Traditional meeting houses used for communal decision-making.
• Kiribati dances: Celebratory performances emphasizing storytelling.

Government and Politics

Kiribati is a democratic republic with a president serving as both head of state and government. The unicameral House of Assembly, or Maneaba ni Maungatabu, oversees legislation. Kiribati’s governance is shaped by both modern democratic practices and traditional customs. The nation has been an advocate for global climate action, raising awareness about rising sea levels.

Economy

Kiribati's economy is primarily based on fishing, agriculture, and remittances. Key sectors include:

• Fishing: Tuna exports are a major source of revenue.
• Agriculture: Copra (dried coconut kernel) production is a key activity.
• Tourism: Although limited, eco-tourism is a growing sector.

Economic challenges include geographic isolation, limited resources, and dependency on international aid.

Society and Demographics

Kiribati has a population of approximately 120,000 people, primarily ethnic I-Kiribati. The majority practice Christianity, with Roman Catholicism and Protestantism being the most prevalent denominations. The society is community-oriented, with extended families playing a central role in daily life.

Tourism

Kiribati offers unique tourism opportunities, especially for eco-tourists and adventure travelers. Highlights include:

• Phoenix Islands Protected Area (PIPA): A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest marine protected areas in the world.
• Tarawa: The capital, known for its World War II relics.
• Kiritimati (Christmas Island): Famous for its birdwatching, fishing, and lagoon.

Tourism infrastructure is limited, emphasizing sustainable and low-impact travel.

Education and Innovation

Education in Kiribati is free and compulsory for children aged 6 to 14. The nation’s primary institution for higher education is the Kiribati Institute of Technology (KIT), which provides vocational training. Efforts are being made to integrate modern technology into education and healthcare, although resources remain limited.

Well-Known Personalities

Notable figures from Kiribati include:

• Anote Tong: Former president and global advocate for climate change awareness.
• Teburoro Tito: Former president and diplomat.
• Rimeta Beniamina: A prominent Kiribati athlete.

These individuals have brought attention to Kiribati on the international stage.

Challenges and Opportunities

Kiribati faces significant challenges, particularly related to climate change. Rising sea levels threaten to submerge much of the country, leading to discussions about potential migration. Economic development is hindered by geographic isolation and limited resources. However, opportunities exist in sustainable tourism, marine conservation, and renewable energy development.

Weblinks

• Government of Kiribati
• Kiribati Tourism
• Phoenix Islands Protected Area

Summary

Kiribati is a unique island nation with a rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. While it faces pressing challenges from climate change and economic isolation, the resilience of its people and its commitment to environmental conservation offer hope for the future. As a global advocate for climate action, Kiribati continues to inspire efforts toward sustainability and adaptation.