Maldives has a history of sultanates and trade routes before becoming a British protectorate in the 19th century. It gained independence in 1965 and has since developed into a global tourist destination. Climate change poses a significant threat due to rising sea levels.
The Maldives, officially the Republic of Maldives, is a tropical paradise located in the Indian Ocean, southwest of Sri Lanka and India. It consists of 26 atolls, encompassing approximately 1,200 coral islands, of which around 200 are inhabited. Covering a land area of about 298 square kilometers, it is one of the world's most geographically dispersed countries. As of 2023, the Maldives has a population of approximately 530,000 people. The capital and largest city is Malé. The official language is Dhivehi, and Islam is the state religion. The Maldives operates as a presidential republic. The economy is predominantly based on tourism, which accounts for a significant portion of the GDP, followed by fishing and agriculture. The Maldives is renowned for its white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life, making it a popular destination for tourists worldwide. The country is a member of international organizations such as the United Nations, the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), and the Commonwealth of Nations.
